Article

Managing Distractions at Work to Improve Productivity

04 Oct,2023 - Yangon | 2 mins read

Author: Ahmad Abdallah, Chief Operations Officer (COO)

In today’s fast-paced corporate world, there is always something to distract us at work; it could be social apps, noise, or colleagues. As a leader, I’ve witnessed the impact distractions can have on an organisation’s productivity. In this article, I will share my experience and tips I’ve discovered to manage distractions effectively and maximise workplace productivity.

1. Plan Your Day: One of the first steps in managing distractions is setting clear plans for the day and allocating time wisely. Categorise tasks by urgency and impact. Get the easiest, quickest tasks done in the first hour of work, to make yourself feel motivated and set the right tone for the day. Designate the rest of your mornings for high-priority tasks when your mind is the freshest and most focused, and handle less critical matters in the afternoons.

2. Block Your Time: Create a to-do list in advance, decide when to tackle each task, and block off time on your calendar to work on each task – including setting specific time slots for team discussions. It is important to clearly communicate your working hours and expectations with your co-workers. By respecting each other’s time and focus, you and your team can collectively improve productivity.

3. Limit the Distractions: A major source of distraction while trying to complete work tasks is technology. Enable 'Do Not Disturb' mode on your mobile phone when you need to be focused at work. Establish specific times to check and respond to emails, preventing constant digital interruptions.

4. Say No When You Need To: While collaboration is vital, there are instances where deferring non-urgent requests is more effective. For example, if a task can wait without compromising outcomes, request for your colleagues to allow you undisturbed focus on your priorities. This ensures that you do not spend all of your work day accommodating urgent requests and neglecting important tasks on your to-do list.

5. Schedule Short Breaks: Taking regular breaks can positively impact your focus and productivity. Instead of letting distractions pull you in, take a brief pause. Close your eyes and take a deep breath. These mindful moments can help you regain focus and tackle your tasks with renewed energy.

6. Delegate and Collaborate: Acknowledge the strengths within your team. Instead of spreading yourself too thin and getting overwhelmed, delegate and collaborate. For instance, if a project requires analytical expertise, entrust it to the colleague who has proficiency in that area. Aligning tasks with strengths ensures optimal contributions within the team, enhancing productivity and enabling stronger focus on strategic objectives.

To conclude, managing workplace distractions is essential to achieve peak productivity. Productivity is not just about working harder; it’s about working smarter. Make sure to apply the above tips consistently. You will find yourself not only managing distractions but also achieving your professional goals with greater ease and efficiency.