We live in a day and age where multi-tasking is the norm. We all try to do multiple things all at the same time. Whether you are trying to do multiple tasks around the same house or you are sitting at your computer right now with multiple windows open at the same time, we all try to accomplish a bunch of things all at once.
It gives this perception of efficiency, but in fact it is slowing us down and limiting our productivity by creating tons of distractions that are stealing our attention. This ends up stressing us out and increasing our anxiety.
If we really want to be efficient, and less stressed out, then we need to remove distractions and work on one thing at a time. Here are some strategies to remove distractions.
Focus on one thing at a time. Close the other browser windows. Answer those text messages later. Turn your phone on airplane mode if necessary. Put one task in front of you at a time and endure to the finish so that you can check it off the list. You may be surprised at how refreshing this is.
Find a quiet place or remove the words. Many people like to listen to music while they work. But music with lyrics can be a huge distraction for you. If you get sick of whatever song you are listening, then you have to delay what you are working on to change the song. If music helps you focus, listen to instrumental music. If you can go without music, that's even better.
Put things on a calendar or schedule. If you schedule in a block of time to work on something, then you set a specific window to work on that task. You accomplish whatever you can in that time you have planned for it and cut if off after that. Sticking to a schedule can keep you from over-committing or doing too many things at once.
Get alone. If you have a spouse, kids, or just chatty friends and coworkers, you can get very distracted by conversation. Sometimes you just need to get alone to accomplish anything.
These are just a few strategies to remove distractions and help you get ahead. Try them out and seize control of your to-do list.