Your productivity and your livelihood are inextricably linked. Especially if you run your own business, work as a freelancer or self-employed contractor. Even if you have an employer, the current situation has likely necessitated huge changes to your working day. You may find that you do all (or most) of your job at home. And while this spares you the tedium of a morning commute, it also brings its own set of challenges. Outside of the office environment, you’re completely accountable for your own productivity. And when distraction sets in, you may find that your working days become much longer, and more frustrating.
Whether you’re employed or work freelance, distraction is a challenge for those who need their working days to be rewarding, productive and as happy as possible. While interpersonal drama, ill-health, stress, anxiety and depression can all lead to distraction at work, if you’re unaffected by any of the above but still find yourself distracted, could these be the reasons why?
Your workstation is cluttered and untidy
Never underestimate the power of clutter to disrupt your working day. While you may convince yourself that the avalanche of paper on your desk is your version of a filing system, an untidy and disordered desk is the enemy of focused, productive work days. Clutter is visually distracting and can interrupt your train of thought, making tasks take longer. Moreover, it can prevent you from being able to relax in your downtime, and generally exacerbate the anxiety and stress that are part and parcel of your work day.
Invest in a desk tidy and commit to keeping your desk clean and neat. You may be surprised by how effective this small measure is.
You’re getting headaches
We all experience headaches from time to time. Often, they’re nothing more than an annoyance that’s solved with a glass or water and a over the counter pain killer. But when headaches become chronic, they can be a source of distraction, irritation and stress.
If you find that your workstation gives you headaches, you need to find out why. If you haven’t been to see your optometrist for a while, it may be that your glasses are giving you eye strain and causing headaches. Maybe you need a new pair of lenses and frames. Click here to visit website. It’s a great excuse to treat yourself to a new pair of glasses. Alternatively, placing an anti-glare screen on your monitor may also help to reduce strain on your eyes.
Your blood sugar is low
If you start your day with a high-carb breakfast (especially one with lots of refined carbs like white flour and sugar), your blood sugar will start to crash before lunchtime. And low blood sugar is a common cause of distraction in the workplace. Opt for more complex carbohydrates (wholegrains, fruit etc.) for your breakfast, and have some high-protein, high-fat snacks in your desk. These can help to stabilize your appetite and prevent cravings.
You’re overdoing it on coffee
A coffee machine is a welcome addition to your home office. But while a little caffeine can help you to feel engaged, focused and motivated, too much of a good thing can lead to fatigue and distraction.
Too much caffeine can make us nervous and jittery and block the receptors for the neurotransmitter adenosine, making us feel sluggish and prone to distraction. Which is why you should supplement your coffee intake with lots of water, and the occasional green tea.
You’re not actively engaged in your work
Finally, even if none of the above apply, you may still find yourself distracted at work due to the nature of the work itself. Of course, we can’t expect our working days to be an 8 hour laugh riot. But we can expect to be stimulated and engaged in our work. And if you feel that you’re less than engaged in your work, you’re not alone. Indeed, 85% of employees across the globe feel that they are actively disengaged in their work or at the very least not engaged in their daily duties. If you find that you’re not engaged in your work, you owe it to yourself to rectify the situation. Talk to your boss. Suggest ways in which they could potentially make your work more engaging.
If you’re self employed, it’s up to you to take your engagement into your own hands. Try breaking your working day into discrete tasks and plan a reward for yourself every time you complete one. Plan meaningful breaks throughout your day to prevent your mind from becoming fatigued.
A tired mind is rarely an engaged or productive mind.
