Distracted at Work? Here’s Why

It’s the year 2021. We live in a world which is, quite frankly, full of distractions. Whether it’s simply the ease of having the internet at our fingertips (meaning we’re able to find a thousand miscellaneous things to look at instead of work), to the specifics of adapting to a new world of work which happens solely at the dining room table (meaning the dog/kids/laundry/dishes just can’t seem to wait), it’s no surprise that many of us are feeling more distracted than ever.

It’s not uncommon for us to hear this from the jobseekers we work with. And that’s the thing about being distracted – there’s often a little more to it.

Are you feeling particularly distracted at the moment? All of the above aside, maybe it’s time to drill down into the why. If any of these points resonate with you, it might be time to start looking for the new challenge which is going to keep you engaged.

Your current job responsibilities are unclear

If you find yourself unsure of what you should be doing in your day-to-day, you’ll find yourself an easy target for distractions. A poorly defined job role leaves you searching for things to do, and can often result in you finding things to do which aren’t quite what you should be.

You’ve lost sight of your long-term aspirations

There are undoubtedly scientific studies out there which show that when we lose motivation, we find other ways to keep our minds engaged. If your job doesn’t leave you feeling as though you’re working towards something, pushing for that long-term goal, it’s not uncommon to lose focus.

You feel overwhelmed/underprepared

If, as an employee, you’re not given the tools, training or resources you need to fulfil your job duties, distraction will seep in. While the term “there’s only so much you can do” is often hailed as the oldest excuse in the book, there’s truth to it. If your employer isn’t giving you what you need to thrive, it could be time to start looking for one who will.

Your role lacks challenge

Public service announcement: a distracted mind is often one which has simply become somewhat bored! We’re all human – we love a challenge, being pushed, tested, forced to problem solve and find a way around obstacles. When the job becomes too mechanized, it’s likely that the brain will start searching for other ways toward engagement.

You no longer enjoy the job

Similarly to being challenged, it’s no secret that those who love the job they do will perform better and stay focused for longer. In the post-pandemic world, work-life balance is a fundamental factor – but, that’s not to say that it’s not important to be doing something you love while at work, too. Enjoyment in the role, whatever that looks like to you, will keep your mind where it needs to be.

What’s interesting about what we all largely consider “distractions” – that is, the things we blame for not getting everything we needed to done – are actually not distractions in the classic sense. They’re simply the solution we seek when we become distracted. The distraction itself stems from something deeper, and we hate to tell you – it’s not necessarily going to go away on its own.

If this article hits home, we’d love to discuss some of the incredible job opportunities the team here at NLG is working on. Check out the live vacancies we’re working on here and, if you prefer an old-fashioned chat, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch today on +1 (888) 404-9990, or drop me a direct message right here on LinkedIn!