Distractions are literally everywhere. They’re in the workplace, at your desk, and even in your hand — your phone. They are the absolute worst things to have when work needs to get done. This is especially true when you’re a remote worker for a virtual company. While everyone gets distracted from time to time, it doesn’t need to happen so often. With that in mind, here are some ways you can say goodbye to distractions and get back to work.
1. Ward off digital temptations.
Block out a specific time period during which you will avoid distractions such as social media, news, games, online shopping, and other sources of distraction. This requires a great deal of self-control. You can either be brave or you can download a program like SelfControl, which will literally keep you off those sites for a set number of hours. As a result, you will keep the digital temptations at bay and you will regain several hours of your work time.
2. Take breaks.
Take breaks. In fact, you should take them often. Small, frequent breaks can actually boost your productivity. Moreover, taking breaks will enable you to feel less tired at the end of the day.
3. Turn off your smartphone notifications.
A lot of the time, your phone will go off for silly reasons. Unnecessary notifications can cause wandering eyes, even when something isn’t even important. Turning off the notifications for non-important things will keep you focused on your work. For sure, you will increase your efficiency.
4. Complete the most difficult task first.
The second you get that difficult task, project or paperwork out of the way, your mind will clear. Subsequently, you’ll get a lot more done because you’ll have already gotten past the most difficult task. If possible, get to work early and get those stress inducers done before everyone else shows up and interrupts your workflow. Or, keep your office door closed so you can work in a quiet space.
5. Stay positive.
Your mood will determine whether you’re fully committed to the task at hand or are dragging it around like a ball and chain. If you walk up to a project with a negative attitude, you won’t be productive. Not only that, but distractions will get your attention more than the work will. However, if you approach something with a positive mindset, you can tackle it in a much more productive and efficient manner.