Be More Productive: Eliminate these 3 Things

Part 1 of a 5-Part Productivity Series (find links for all five at the bottom)

What are your biggest distractions to staying focused and getting what you need and want to be done, in other words being productive?

stay focused without distractions like throwing paper in a waste basket

I have trouble staying focused when my mind runs amuck, and I follow along willingly! Let me show you.

I sit down at my computer to write out a new post for you all to read.

Then I write a title or start my first sentence. I pause to think of how to word my thoughts, and my mind wanders in a different direction altogether.

First, I remember I wanted to check to see if a pair of shoes I wanted had gone on sale. Then I start checking at my favorite store online or search the brand through Google. Then I start looking at other things on sale.

When I finally get back to my writing, it doesn’t take long before a fleeting thought takes me away again.

I needed to pay that bill. . .

I wonder if anyone responded to that email of mine. . .

Then an hour later, I realize what I have done and attempt to get myself back on track!

How many of you are with me?

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When it comes to staying focused, things can always get in your way and knock you off track. Some days, you may even find it difficult to get into your everyday work rhythm in the first place.

You may feel distracted and struggle to focus on your tasks. You might be doubting or questioning your ideas. Your mind might be wandering. You might also be feeling fatigued.

I struggle with all the above at various times during the week and sometimes all during the same day!

The easiest thing to do is follow the distraction and end up wasting time on Facebook or Netflix for the next few hours. Instead of doing this, you might find checking in with your body helpful.

When you stop to check in with yourself, you may find that a simple fix is required to get yourself to stay focused.

Three things that can quickly stop you from staying focused

When you get these things under control, you will find it much easier to stay focused.

Your body is hungry.

When you’re hungry, thinking clearly is complex, making decision-making difficult. That’s why it’s essential that you take time to nourish your body. You wouldn’t set out on a road trip with an empty gas tank just as you can’t expect your body to perform at its best when denying it much-needed fuel.

You can quickly remedy this situation by getting something to eat. But be sure to steer clear of sugary snacks. They may give you a temporary burst of energy, but they will be gone within a few hours, leaving your body just as hungry as before. Instead, try to opt for healthier snacks that contain plenty of protein, like a handful of nuts, a serving of lean chicken breast, or other energy-boosting snacks.

Your thoughts are scattered.

You start your day with the best intentions; you start working on one project but get distracted by another. You check your email and catch up on your social media updates. Before you know it, you have twelve different activities open on your screen, over an hour has passed, and you haven’t completed any of them!

When this happens, you might be experiencing a lack of focus. You have so many ideas and tasks that you don’t know where to start working. In this case, it’s best to pause and make a list. Write down everything you need to accomplish today or this week.

Then prioritize these projects by numbering them. Your most important task should be number one. Then, after you’re finished creating your list, start working your way down it. Complete them one at a time for your allocated work time. Stay focused on one task at a time to get more of your list done.

Your body is exhausted.

Many things can cause you to feel exhausted besides a lack of sleep. Emotional stress, illness, chronic pain, and other problems can deplete energy. When you’re exhausted, it’s hard to stay focused on the task at hand.

The best way to tackle exhaustion is to practice self-care. Look at your life and ask yourself what you really need right now. You might need a day off. You might need a sitter to help watch your kids while you work.

You might need to let go of stressful clients or remove projects that don’t fit your talents well. You might, in fact, need to get a better night’s sleep. Don’t hesitate to give yourself what you need. Taking good care of yourself will make it easier to complete your tasks and reach your goals.

Take care of yourself to stay focused

It’s vital that you take time to check in with your mind and body a few times each day. When you do this regularly, be able to attend to your needs and allow yourself to be more productive.

Practice regular self-care to be sure you are in top-notch condition to remain productive and meet your goals and then some!

Ready to get unstuck and be more productive than ever? Download your bonus workbook now!