Not Focused? Five Tips to Deal with Distractions

A fruitful, fulfilling career is, without a doubt, something everyone desires. In addition to having the monetary benefits required to live a high quality of life, it also builds connections and provides opportunities for advancements. However, like anything else, this goals needs to be worked for in order for the positive results to be gained. A large part of being a highly regarded employee is being able to manage time effectively and be productive even if distractions are present. Here are five tips to help anyone earn the bonus they deserve:

Tip One: Communication is Key

One problem frequently encountered in the workplace is a lack of transparency regarding what others are doing. This issue is especially restrictive when one is unsure about how tasks are delegated even within their own team, as this can lead to duplicated or missing work and disagreements. The best way to amend this is by initiating conversations with co-workers and superiors alike. There is no need to be excessively fancy; a simple email asking for clarification or information is all that is needed. Just because something is not written in bold letters does not mean it is not there, so show initiative by asking around.

On the other end of the scale, people find there is too much information bombarding them from all sides, making them feel conflicted and unmotivated to work for fear of performing the wrong task or misunderstanding an important notice. A cluttered inbox, for example, is particularly distracting. The simplest way to avoid this predicament is to use a special email just for work, and only give it to customers and coworkers to keep all notices career oriented. Entering it into sites asking for ‘membership’ or subscribing to anything personal is a bad idea.

Tip Two: Manage Time Effectively

People often complain about an overload of work or miss deadlines due to inability to complete the assignment. However, most of these problems stem from poor time management caused by not knowing how to use the hours effectively. In order to cure this, prioritizing is key in ensuring every minute is put into something productive and urgent. Making a list of tasks, closing social media sites, and taking regular, short breaks also help in keeping the gears turning and prevent the dreaded loss of time phenomenon which results in the question, “Where did the day go?”

Tip Three: Use the Right Tools

Tools are built for convenience, so if something, whether it be an app or a program, is too complicated or time-consuming to use, abandon it immediately. Chances are, there are a ton of similar products, so research beforehand to ensure suitability for the type and level of work. There is no need to purchase an expensive package for professionals when only a cheap, user-friendly component is required to get the job done. If the company dictates a specific, but complex, program, head to the library or the internet to get thousands of tutorials on how to use it. Otherwise, if nothing helps, do not be afraid to contact a supervisor and ask.

Tip Four: Avoid Interruptions

From managers to coworkers, it seems everyone wants to pop in, say hi, ask about the weather, etc. Although a couple of distractions is normal and expected, they can be annoying during times requiring focus and concentration. Putting a polite sign on the door saying, “Please do not disturb” is a tactful and straightforward way to warding off any unwanted visitors. However, if the frequency of meetings or the location of the cubicle is what is bothersome, talk to a superior. They will most likely be open to constructive, founded suggestions.

Tip Five: Keep Track of Tasks

Very few people have photographic memories, so it is important to have a place just for recording important items. The human brain can only juggle seven pieces of information at once, but a paper’s ability is only limited by its size. Whenever a task is assigned, write it down in a planner or make a note of it in digital form. This way, the brain is freed up, stress is decreased, and forgetfulness is a thing of the past.