Staying focused and productive at work is a skill that takes a lot of strength to master. We have to admit that every workplace in the world has a million things that can keep us distracted – it may be a noisy co-worker, phones ringing, or even a comfy couch that just sits there inviting us to take a quick nap. Before you know it, the work day is over and you haven’t done any of your deliverables.
Here are some things that you can do to keep your mind from wandering off and be able to focus on the things that need to be done:
1. List down and sort your daily tasks
Never underestimate your workload or you’ll end up doing most of it in the last few minutes of your shift. Break down all of your tasks and plan your day ahead by giving yourself a timeline. The sense of achievement that you’ll get when you cross them off your list one by one is priceless.
2. Organize your emails
E-mails can become a distraction. If you’re the kind of person who worries too much, the need to check your email every time a new message pops up breaks your focus on whatever work you are currently doing. Use filters to sort out e-mails that you get and label them according to importance. This way, you’ll know whether the e-mail that you just received is urgent or if it can wait until you finish your current assignment.
3. Keep your social media usage to a minimum
Unless it’s part of your job, frequently checking your social media profiles can actually eat up a lot of your time. Set a limit on checking your social media accounts – do it only during your breaks.
4. Take regular breaks
Taking a break is very important to keep your brain focused – give it a few minutes to relax. However, make sure that you are taking a break to clear or declutter your brain, and not filling it up with other less important information that can only distract you for the rest of the day.
5. Maintain a happy and positive outlook
The more negativity you have in your life, the easier it is for you to get dissatisfied and distracted. Start your work day right by doing things that make you happy, like having breakfast with your work friends, taking time in the morning to listen to music, or reading your favorite webcomic’s latest update. Keeping yourself happy can help you keep your brain from wandering off and thinking about other things.
If you feel like you’ve lost your focus, try doing any of these tips. Here’s an infographic that you can use as a daily reminder. Print, pin it on your workstation and even share it with your friends.
You don’t need to do them all at the same time. Incorporate any of these tips one at a time and you’ll soon notice an improvement in approaching your workload.
Do you need a helping hand to manage your workload? Schedule a free consultation with our team of Creatives and find out how we can help you reach your goal.
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