A quick Google search of the word “productivity” returns over two billion results. Needless to say, it’s talked about a lot. We’re all looking for ways to be a bit more productive during the workday to achieve goals and meet deadlines.
But true productivity takes more than just a new app or tool to keep you on track. There are some bad habits you’re probably already caught up in that kill your productivity.
Here are a few of the most common ones plus tips to help you break them.
1. Multitasking
The problem: We hate to break it to you, but multitasking is a myth. Studies show that just 2.5% of people can effectively do it.
Multitasking is killing your productivity because you aren’t allowing enough time to get in the zone. Constantly switching between tasks—emails, project management, phone calls, etc.—breaks your focus.
The solution: Breaking a multitasking habit requires a new mindset—your goal is to devote energy to completing tasks instead of switching tasks.
Here are a few things that might work for you:
- Batch similar tasks and do them at one time. For example, set aside a one-hour period twice a day to check emails, texts, notifications, and all other forms of communication.
- Simplify your to-do list. Instead of trying to accomplish a million things in a day, pare it down. The big secret to achieving more is doing less.
2. Winging it with no routine
The problem: This is a habit remote workers and solopreneurs may struggle with. Without the structure of an office and colleagues, it can be hard to stay productive throughout the day.
Flexible schedules are awesome, but even a loose structure will help identify important tasks and make sure you get them done.
The solution: Create some structure for your day.
This can include:
- Setting work hours each day and sticking to them.
- Identifying “one big thing” to accomplish each day. This will increase motivation and productivity for the next day.
- Change out of your pajamas and get out of the house. Joining a coworking space or working in a new environment can keep you focused and productive, along with many other benefits of escaping your home office each week!
3. Always saying “yes”
The problem: If you say yes to every meeting, collaboration, or project… you’re going to run out of time in the day and become overwhelmed.
The solution: Prioritize what’s important to you. Is it onboarding new clients? Focusing on a specific project? Are you working on a timeline? Determine what’s most important and then only say “yes” to whatever’s related to that.
If you work with a team, try these ideas:
- Communicate your priorities and scope of work with them.
- Set boundaries and say no when needed. It can be as simple as, “I’m focused on completing XYZ project, so don’t have the time to take on more right now.”
- Work with your boss or manager to re-prioritize work when there’s too much on your plate.
4. App-obsession
The problem: This isn’t even about social media (more on that in #6). We’re talking productivity and work apps. Just think about how many different apps and programs you use each day—Gmail, Calendly, Docs, Asana, Slack, WhatsApp… the list goes on.
You can spend so much time organizing work in the app rather than actually doing work! It kills your productivity because it’s just another thing to break focus on what’s really important. You need to choose only the most essential tools to help you stay organized.
The solution: You’ve got to break up with some of your apps. Do it in two steps:
- Note down every app, program, or tool you use throughout the day. Consider what each one is used for, how often you use it, and if there’s any overlap with others.
- Condense your apps down to what you frequently use and what is necessary—if one app can do two tasks, get rid of the second!
5. Not automating
The problem: You have recurring tasks that need to get done on a daily or weekly basis. It could be sending invoices, paying bills, or setting up meetings. If you do them all manually, it can take a lot of time and kill your productivity during the day.
The solution: Take a look at what you do on a recurring basis and see if there is room for automation. Here are some examples:
- Use the Calendly app to set up appointments.
- Automate bill payments through online banking.
- Set the timer on your coffee machine to start every morning at the same time.
6. Distractions
The problem: Distractions include scrolling on social media, notifications on your phone, or the noise outside. Every time you’re distracted from the task at hand, your productivity suffers.
The solution: The only way to combat distractions is by removing them completely. Do this by:
- Choosing a quiet workspace.
- Turning off notifications, both on your phone or desktop.
- Use a site blocker to prevent you from checking in on all your favorite distractions (looking at you, Instagram).
- Put a “do not disturb” notice on your door or online profile so others know you are focusing.
- Try decluttering, using aromatherapy, or other techniques to add a sense of calm to your workspace.
7. Copying other work styles
The problem: Everyone has their own unique work style. And if you’re copying others rather than following your own, you’re losing out on productivity.
Consider someone who thrives in a totally silent work environment—they’re not going to do well working next to someone who listens to music all day long! Trying to fit into someone else’s mold is not going to help your productivity.
The solution: Figure out what you need and want to be productive. Then, seek out an environment that matches it. Use these questions to get you started:
- Do you like total silence or background noise?
- Do you work better in a collaborative setting or on your own?
- Are you most productive in the morning or evening?
Figuring out what works for you is the best way to become more productive. These productivity-killing habits are getting in your way of doing your best work, so let’s make a pact and break them together!
If you’re looking for a flexible workspace that is built for productivity, book a tour of The Post today!