10 Productivity Killers You Need to Avoid

Productivity is usually associated with the amount of useful work done, targets accomplished, and goals achieved. However, in today’s world filled with distractions and competing demands for our attention, our focus span is decreasing, making it increasingly challenging to get actual work done. If only we were aware of the little monsters that kill our time and energy, we could battle against time more effectively and answer the million-dollar question, “Where did the day go?” Here is a list of ten statements that account for poor productivity in our daily lives and how to overcome them.

1. “I can’t do this now!”
Some people spend their entire day jumping from one task to another, only to realize at the end of the day that they haven’t accomplished much. This behavior, termed “second-degree procrastination,” involves passing on important tasks to do simpler, less significant work. Instead of tackling complex or time-consuming tasks, they waste time on smaller tasks or responding to easy emails that do not require much focus or effort. To overcome this, prioritize your tasks and focus on the most important ones first.

2. “I can finish all of this at once!”
Although we might desire to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, our minds and bodies are not built to handle too many things at once. Multitasking leads to lack of focus, mistakes, forgetfulness, and anxiety. It is crucial to stick to one task at a time and complete it before moving on to the next.

3. “No breaks today!”
Taking breaks is not a waste of time; rather, it provides an opportunity to relax, rejuvenate, evaluate progress, and enhance performance. Incorporate healthy breaks and create no-work zones in your daily schedule to gain breathing space and maintain productivity.

4. “No schedules for me, I am flexible!”
Some individuals believe that setting schedules and creating to-do lists restrict their ability to accomplish a lot. However, our minds are wired to follow patterns and routines. Organizing your day, defining boundaries to avoid unnecessary tasks, and establishing a structure can greatly improve efficiency.

5. “It’s all in my mind, I remember everything!”
Carrying a mind stuffed with ideas, thoughts, and to-do lists can divert your focus from the task at hand. Transcribe your thoughts onto paper or email a list to yourself, relieving your mind from the burden and allowing you to work more freely.

6. “It’s just a little time on the net!”
Numerous studies reveal that people spend significant amounts of time surfing the internet, including social media, resulting in decreased productivity. Establish boundaries around your work, eliminate interruptions, silence your phone, disable notifications, and block websites that consume precious minutes.

7. “I will complete all the major work today!”
Executing tasks throughout the day can be counterproductive as our energy levels fluctuate. Recognize the hours when you feel most energized and use that time to tackle complex tasks. When your energy starts to dwindle, focus on lighter tasks that require less mental effort.

8. “I believe in finishing-as-you-go!”
Impulsive workers often interrupt their work to attend impromptu meetings, respond to phone calls, or answer emails and texts. They take up any unscheduled task without considering its priority, leading to inconsistent performance. To overcome this, control your impulses, prioritize your tasks, and finish what is critical and needs to be done by the end of the day.

9. “I will skip that lunch/breakfast!”
Skipping meals due to a heavy workload can backfire, resulting in mistakes and loss of focus. Your body requires both food and rest to perform at its best. Depriving yourself of either can lead to decreased energy levels and even sickness. Make time for meals and ensure you allow yourself adequate breaks.

10. “I can do that, no problem!”
If you accept every task that comes your way, you will quickly become overwhelmed and unable to deliver quality work. Learn to say “no” to irrelevant commitments and avoid taking on unnecessary tasks. Focus on what is important and free up more time and energy for those tasks.

By avoiding these productivity killers, you can get more done with less effort and stress. Prioritize your tasks, set boundaries, take breaks, establish routines, and learn to say “no” to unnecessary commitments. With mindful strategies and discipline, you can enhance your productivity and accomplish your goals efficiently.