Sometimes some employees usually look for an excuse to stop tasks for a few minutes, which can be converted into hours.
As main distractors at work are electronic devices, which although they can be allies when working, become a waste of time when the priority is to be productive.
Here are some of the most recurrent distractions and recommendations to mitigate them.
1. Control social media and mobile usage
Answering the Whatsapp and browsing social networks can become a vice that distracts the worker, “therefore, devices that are not completely necessary to perform tasks should be put in ‘do not disturb’ mode to avoid constant reviews and, in case of the computer, you can block web pages that can launch persistent notifications, “advises Andrés Díaz Granados, executive manager of DNA Human Capital.
2. Active breaks that are prolonged
On the other hand, there are those ‘breaks’ or active pauses, designated moments so that the employee can rest and refresh the mind and body, and then resume their work.
The outings for the red or cigarette should not be extended or repeated on several occasions during the day. It is necessary to look for an adequate rhythm of work and that there is no deconcentration in a task. According to Díaz, “it is necessary to designate specific times of these breaks so that there is harmony between the work, also avoiding the exhaustion of the team; If an employee is busy, they should create signals to signal that they do not want to be interrupted.”
3. Lack of organization and an agenda
The use of the calendar and agenda should not be underestimated. These two tools – whether digital or physical – allow you to organize meetings and pending tasks; Interventions from your colleagues or meetings that you may have forgotten can take away your focus from the task you were doing.
“It is important that the worker has an agenda where he can organize events, meetings, work and personal tasks; between 60 and 70 percent of the time should be dedicated to important activities,” advises Martha Durango, Director of Human Resources at Adecco Colombia.
4. Music can also deconcentrate you
Can total silence improve concentration? While music without voices and without extremely changing sounds can help you improve your productivity, exterior and interior noise can deconcentrate you. To avoid the hustle and bustle of the street, the office or televisions, “you can opt for the use of headphones that minimize noise and facilitate concentration,” recommends Durango.
5. After-work errands
Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today. Thinking about the bills you haven’t paid or the doctor’s appointment you haven’t been able to schedule can spend a lot of your time and make you forget what’s important.
Depending on your need, organize your week and free time. Then, find out if there are extended hours or appointments after your working hours, this to perform your errands without spoiling your work time.
What helps us improve concentration?
Maintaining good health is synonymous with organization. Sport or doing some physical activity can fill you with energy to focus on your work tasks, so “exercising, preferably first thing in the morning and maintaining good eating habits, can favor concentration and productivity,” concludes Durango.