5 ways not to get distracted while working

We live in an interruption-based culture that can be damaging to productivity. Most of the time, notifications from electronic devices only add to the distraction. In fact, many people are so used to getting interrupted at work that when they don't, they actually go looking for one. 

Distraction and constant multitasking can actually hurt small-business owners' performance.

Why do we need to avoid distraction?

Getting away from distractions can allow you to think more clearly, to quieten your inner thoughts so you can really listen to your intuition and authentic thoughts. But our modern world conspires against this quiet reflection. 

Many of us are constantly switched on with phones, emails, notifications and devices, all pinging to get our attention. And a 'fear of missing out' stops us from turning it all off and just giving our full and interrupted attention to what we are doing at that moment.

How to not get distracted while working?

• Work alongside productive people: Focus can be contagious, so if possible, surround yourself with the most productive people in the workplace. Sitting next to or working alongside someone who knuckles down will not only inspire you to do the same, but will lessen your chance of being interrupted unnecessarily.

• Break tasks into chunks: Large tasks can seem overwhelming, which can lead us to welcome interruptions, and reduce our productivity. If you split a project up into smaller tasks that require less time, you’ll feel like the end goal is more achievable. Smaller tasks are generally easier to tackle – ensuring you’re more likely to stay focussed on getting each mini-task achieved.

• Set boundaries with interrupting colleagues: If you work alongside someone who is prone to distraction, try setting some boundaries so they know when you need to concentrate on the task at hand. You can tell someone you need to work on a specific task politely without hurting their feelings. Let them know you’ll be with them in just a few minutes to answer their question.

• Block online distractions: If you find it difficult to avoid social media or your favourite blog, consider investing in one of the distraction-free apps available, such as Anti-Social or Concentrate. These will block you from specified sites for allocated periods of time.

• Make time for breaks: It may seem counterintuitive to suggest regular breaks, but these are important to give your brain a rest, include social time in the day, and re-energise and motivate yourself for the next task on your list.

Conclusion:

Learning how to not get distracted is certainly easier said than done. Distractions exist in every corner of our lives these days, even if it’s in the form of a short beep generated from a notification. These kinds of distractions can seem minimal, but anything that pulls you away from your focus can get in the way of your productivity. 

Don’t get distracted. Instead, use some of the tips above to win back your focus and overcome distractions. Your productivity will thank you.