We all have distractions but the question is how do we get over them?
Distractions are defined as a thing that predicts someone from focusing on something else’.
As I wrote this paragraph, I realised that I didn’t post my workout on my IG and then I had to check my emails for some odd reason. I have a weird thing about checking my emails. I check it several times a day. Just to see if there are any jobs worth applying for, any replies for jobs I applied for…see there’s me getting distracted again!
Distractions can come in the form of people and/or things.
What are your distractions?
My phone- I could be reading my book and then I remember that I didn’t respond to my friend’s message. Then somehow, I’ll end up on Instagram and 20 minutes later. I’ve jumped down the rabbit hole- check out social dilemma on Netflix if you haven’t already.
Looking out my bedroom window- I live on a hill and I can see my car from the comfort of my bed. I park in a particular spot for that reason. All-day, I look to see wats going on. The road is always busy; from school drop off/pick up (there’s a school at the bottom of the hill) to big old trucks. I look to see who has the audacity to park super close to my car. I will stop dead in my tracks to look out my window ha!
My mother- God bless my mama but I could be working out or researching something online and she will just come into my room talking about something or another or like me, come to see what’s going on outside. Now, my mind is warped and I struggle to pick up where I left off. The thing about me, when I’m in the zone, I am in the ZONE. I am getting ish done but if something distracts me from that…oooo there is going to be a problem!
But over time, I learnt that I have to get things done and procrastination will not take me out this game!
Below are 5 tips that will help me to overcome distractions:
- Make a to-do list and stick to it
Having a list can help you to be motivated and can ensure that you can stay on task. When you do make a to-do list, make sure you prioritise your list and make the most important tasks are first. Now for time blocking; if you have a lot to do, ensure you spend time working on your stuff but include breaks (If you need more guidance on this, click here!). My university tutor followed the 40/20 rule; work for 40 minutes and then have a 20-minute break.
- Practice mindfulness
Meditation has so many benefits. When meditating, you observe your thoughts, let them come and go. Research shows that meditation helps to focus on your attention. If your work is overwhelming and your working with tight deadlines, make some time for yourself. Just 10 minutes focus on deep breaths. Inhale 7 seconds and exhale for 11 seconds. Do it a few times and see the difference!
- Reward yourself
Do you have a crazy schedule? Don’t be all work and no play! You deserve to treat yourself. During one of your breaks, or to unwind, read a book, catch up on your favourite tv show. You have to pat yourself on the back. Taking responsibility and accountability; ensuring you do what you set out to do and for that, you need a pick me up. However, do this ONCE you accomplish your tasks. Don’t let the rewards distract you from your work. Work for your reward!
- Remove distractions from your work environment
It is easier said than done. In order to focus on your work remove things that take your focus away from your work. Phone out of here! Laptop out of here! (Unless you need it of course) At the time of writing (well the brainstorming bit) this, my phone was on silent and my laptop is off so I can zone in. Whatever distracts you and is not adding to your work vibe, put it away!
- Stop multitasking!
I am guilty of this. Very guilty. I have been multitasking for years. For me, it works. For example, I am listening to a podcast while typing this post up. It motivates me. I need some inspiration. I struggle to work in complete silence. If there’s complete silence, I’ll end up looking out the window. If you struggle to complete tasks solo, try to work on ONE THING for 10 minutes. Trying to do many things at the same time may have a negative impact on your productivity.
We all get distracted at some at some point, we are only human!
But try not to let distraction distract you (see what I did there) from your goals. Need help to make your goals check here.
Take these tips, apply them and see how your productivity sores.
Thank you for reading.
Take care.
I’m a culprit of multitasking 😀 I’ll take not of these awesome tips and put them to effect. Thanks for sharing
Your discussion about multitasking is so important! We have to really look at why we do it and how effective it is for us. Like you said, it works for some people but not all and not always.
I have a really small attention span. The funny thing is, I can totally relate with my mom as my distraction haha. We can sometimes talk for hours! Thanks for these tips. I really need these
Me too! After about 20 minutes, I start looking around lol. You are welcome. Thanks for reading!
Great post! I was looking for a post like this since our digital university started and distractions are everywhere when I’m online.
Oh yes, being a student during these times are challenging. I literally just finished my course, and it was a struggle to focus at home. Good luck with uni. Thanks for reading!
I’m so guilty of multitasking. You think your getting more things done but for me, I end up not getting any of it done or it’s half done. Thanks for the tips, they will help~
I am guilty of multitasking, but if we focus on doing on thing at a time, we will be more productive. Thanks for reading!