5 Tips for avoiding distractions to get more done

IT IS very easy to become distracted. On some level, we all suffer from the goldfish mentality of eagerly jumping from one thing to the next. Fighting the urge to not procrastinate and get things done is super hard for most of us. However, we need to force ourselves to avoid those distractions so that we can get more done in a day. Check out these top five Flair tips on how to avoid distractions and get more done.

1. KNOW YOUR TRIGGERS.

Being aware of your biggest distractions, and when they surface, is very important. For many of us, social media is a trigger, as is Netflix. The first step to helping you minimise distractions and get more done is to identify what your biggest triggers are for becoming distracted.

2. REMEMBER YOUR PRIORITIES.

Yes, you like watching Netflix or scrolling through Instagram. Those things are very relaxing and do not require much effort. But let’s face it. The extra work piling up on your desk is not going to do itself. In the long run, it’s better to have a job to go to so you can pay for these monthly subscriptions. It’s easy to get caught up in distractions and tell yourself that they are important to you. But when you put them in a side-by-side comparison to things that are really important to you, such as family, your health, your career, etc., you’ve got a clear winner.

3. TURN OFF WHAT YOU DON’T NEED.

Unless the project you’re currently working on requires you to have your email or social apps open and your phone volume turned up, turn them all off. This will allow you to get into the zone and power through.

4. KNOW HOW YOU WORK BEST.

At this stage of your life, you probably know the times when you are most productive and what gets you in the mood to do work. Use these things to your advantage. Create an environment that will make you want to be more productive. The most productive workspace looks different for everyone. You know how you work best, so try to work in that atmosphere as often as possible, especially when you have something that needs a lot of focus.

5. SCHEDULE IN TIME FOR DISTRACTIONS.

Productivity is sort of like dieting. If you go on a diet that’s too restrictive, when you do cheat, you’re going to go way overboard. Productivity is the same. If you try to completely eliminate anything that is a distraction or isn’t a productive use of your time, such as social media or Netflix, then you’re going to eventually hit a wall where you want to do nothing but those things. Balance is crucial. Scheduling allows you to have more control over your time and stay focused.