This post talks about common problems affecting the “wired workers” (those who use a lot of technology) and a few appraoches to dealing with them. Here are some highlights:
Common problems:
- Distractions / Lack of Focus - If you are having trouble focusing on what you need to do, go to a “single-tasking” mode. So many people are prone to multi-task as much as possible, but when it comes to crunch time, force yourself to single-task until you finish what you need to. You could also consider shortening your to-do lists to only list the three most important things you need to finish (at night, write 3 things you HAVE to get done tomorrow) and focus on those in single-task mode until you finish them.
- Information Overload - This is an obvious problem with anyone in touch with reality. Between Facebook, Twitter, Google Reader, your email, oh yeah, and your job, there is just too much information. Set aside some time to unsubscribe from things that do not really matter and set up email filters to help you only see the information you really need to see.
- Repetitive Tasks - One word: Automate
- Backlog- You have so many things to do in a backlog of information (after a vacation or really busy week) and you dont even know when to start. Instead of Inbox Zero, start with Inbox 0.5. Stay at it, and you will get it all done.
- Interruptions - Just turn off the stuff that is bothering you. Close your door, turn your phone on silent, and stop looking at Twitter for a while, and just focus on what you need to do.
- Procrastination - If you are still putting off the things you really need to do, ask yourself, “What is stopping me from doing this?” After that, take a deep breath, get past that spot, and just do it.
- Overwhelm - If you just have too much to do, try to take on less for a little while until you get caught up, and then slowly get back to doing more.
What are some things you do to overcome common productivity problems?
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Read the original article here: Reusable Solutions to Common Productivity Problems [Lifehacker.com]
