Are you finding it harder than ever to stay focused at work? Every day, people are bombarded with emails, gchats and other electronic disruptions and distractions from the task at hand.
Indeed, according to a new study by LinkedIn of 6,580 professionals, only one out of 10 workers said they actually accomplish each day what they set out to do — and many cited electronic distractions.
So, how do you manage the constant interruptions and distractions so you actually get your work done?
Identify the distraction: You can’t address the problem until you acknowledge it. Whatever is your distraction of choice, you’ll be much better to deal with it once you’ve called it out.
Prioritise: Which tasks need to get done immediately — and which can wait until tomorrow? It sounds obvious, but if you focus on the most pressing, you’ll be able to minimise the distractions.
Finish one task before starting another: All too often people are 70 per cent done with 100 per cent of their projects, rather than 100 per cent done with 70 per cent of projects. What this means, of course, if you’ll have nothing completed to show for your effort. Focus on getting one assignment done before starting the next.
Block out time for e-mails and phone messages: In most cases, personal interactions — whether on the phone, or via email — are the source of interruptions and distractions. So, set aside a time when you’ll be responding to emails and voicemails.
Take breaks: Whether it’s a walk to get a cup of coffee or just to stretch your legs, most experts say you’ll be more productive if you take a break every 60 or 90 minutes. — Agencies
