The Four Killer Distractions That Reduce Productivity

Optimizing workflow isn't always as straightforward as it seems, with inevitable distractions that frequently present themselves in the background. Here are some of the worst offenders in that regard.

Every business strives to make its processes as efficient as possible. However, there are various distractions in the workplace that can be unavoidable. Some can be latently present, making it harder to control them. 

While it's impossible to completely remove the distractions, being aware of them will allow you to make a negative impact on productivity minimal. 

Here’s a list of unlikely distractions that kill productivity.

Distraction #1. Work Environment

There can be plenty of distractions in the workplace that can directly interrupt current tasks or disrupt concentration and focus. Even if the work doesn't stop with such distractions, it will significantly slow down.

The most common distractions in the work environment are chatter, phone calls, and unnecessary meetings. Background noise in and outside the office can also be disruptive, as well as visual distractions. Sound isolation can help in that regard, as well as proper lighting and less movement around the office. 

Finally, even foul odors can be distracting, which is why the workspace should be clean and have adequate ventilation.

Distraction #2. Succumbing to Perfectionism

A perfectionist isn't the same as a conscientious worker, as one will obsess with producing flawless results while the other will strive to be as efficient as possible.

While perfectionism is often seen as a good business trait, it can just as easily become detrimental to productivity. 

Perfectionists have unrealistically high standards that they struggle to meet. Because of that, they tend to restart their tasks from scratch, even if it means missing deadlines and slowing down their work and those that depend on them. 

In addition to this zealous pursuit of an unattainable goal, a perfectionist can start procrastinating to postpone the inevitable frustration.

Distraction #3. Monotonous Tasks

Repetitive work becomes straining with time due to the lack of motivation and creativity involved in such tasks. Entering and processing data or tasks related to email, for example, can take up precious time and distract from the real productive work.

Luckily, there's a relatively straightforward way to resolve such issues and it comes down to automation. Tagging, sorting, and sending emails can all be automated to leave the employees free to do more important tasks and be more effective at them. 

Distraction #4. Unproductive Meetings

Meetings can prove inefficient in various ways - worse if they're unnecessary. But even if an appointment is needed, it can quickly be derailed by subjects that aren't focused on productivity. 

Conversations that turn personal, endless complaints, or a lecture from a company senior become more of a distraction than a productive meeting. If it's combined with poor timing that disrupts regular tasks, a meeting will not be beneficial in any sense. 

The best way to avoid the meetings from becoming unproductive is to schedule them well ahead of time, provide clear guidelines, and moderate them properly. 

The primary purpose of a meeting is to hear different voices and opinions, but a certain amount of control should exist to make this possible.

Reducing Distractions Boosts Productivity

Every business will significantly benefit from removing or minimizing distractions. Simultaneously, the workplace, everyday tasks, and in-office relations could become much more pleasant if everything's optimized for productivity and efficiency. 

The less distracting the workplace, the more satisfied the employees will be contributing to the business growth.

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