Purging Digital Distractions for Increased Productivity
Productivity means different things for different people. It is usually related to activities and experiences that are important to a person. Productivity isn't an issue when you are doing your laundry. If you don't enjoy this task, you couldn't care less how efficient the experience is.
You want to be productive when you are engaged in an enjoyable process. That makes sense. The problem is that when you are unproductive at anything, whether it is an activity you like or not, it can negatively impact other areas of your life. Here are some tips for removing digital distractions so you benefit from better productivity.
Use the 30-Day Rule
If you last used a game, app, file, or digital content more than 30 days ago, will you use it again? If this is something you may have to refer to again, such as content you created for a client, file it away in cloud storage where you don't have to deal with it regularly.
If you no longer need them, delete them. Get them off your home page or desktop. They won't be there to distract your focus and ruin your productivity.
Delete Data for Good
Make some hard choices. Instead of keeping files, apps, and other digitally based distractions around "just in case," delete those you don't need.
Turn off the Devices You Aren't Actively Using
Many people immediately click on their television when they get up in the morning. Their phone is quickly in their hand, and they might also switch on their laptop or tablet. You cannot use all those devices simultaneously, so immediately limit your digital distractions by only powering up the ones you need.
Use the Out Of Sight, Out Of Mind Rule
Digital distractions appeal to your senses. If you can't see or hear them, they won't be a problem. Store digital content in the cloud, thumb drive, or external hard drive if you don't need instant access. Minimize the number of digital files, data, apps, and games that beg for your attention.
The definition of productivity is being efficient with your time. You get a lot done in the shortest amount of time possible. Looking at that definition gives us the biggest benefit of improved productivity - more time for the things that truly matter to you. Practice these simple tips for cleaning up your digital experience. More free time is just one of the many benefits you will enjoy.
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