With distractions in the workplace, it is easy to lose focus on what you are doing although if this continuously happens then it could start to have an effect on your business.
When you are constantly distracted, your attention to what you are doing will drop, meaning it will take longer to complete the tasks you are working on.
Here are some of the ways you can avoid or reduce distractions:
Switch off your phone:
One of the biggest distractions for many is mobile phones, whether that be your work or personal device. It is easy to see you have a notification and automatically check what it is, and without realising you have wasted valuable time that could have been spent on work. You may also feel that every time your work phone rings you have to pick it up but if you’re in the middle of something important you should focus on that, make sure to tell those you work with that you are not taking non-essential calls between certain times to stop distractions.
Avoid multitasking:
Even if you have a big to-do list for the day make sure to stick to one task at a time rather than dividing your attention between many things. Once you have tried this you will find you’ll get a lot more done if you finish one task before starting the next. A tip that I find useful is to always have a list of what needs to be done in the day…always starting with the priority first so you don’t feel stressed if not everything gets completed!
Take breaks:
When focusing on a task it can be easy to forget to take a break, although try not to do this as it is important to get some fresh air or take a break from looking at a screen. Taking regular breaks will help you to focus more effectively when you return to what you were doing as you will have a clear mind, it will boost your concentration and help you feel refreshed.
Create a space that limits distractions so that you do not have the stress of not completing everything you need to do, you will then not have to put in overtime as you will finish everything within a normal working day. Remember… if you feel overwhelmed just start somewhere and keep going and ask for help if need be. Try not to let distractions prevent you from working, particularly when you are faced with tight deadlines.