How to Increase Productivity and Block Distractions
Like clockwork my hand reaches for my phone to do only one thing: scroll. Endlessly.
And as I scroll I feel the time tick by and nothing has gotten done. None of my tasks completed. None of my goals accomplished. All sitting on my list of lists to be done.
So why do I continue to reach for my phone?
In the era of the smart phone and social media, we’ve become completely reliant on this mini computer. It fills up our time and turns our brains off and into complete mush. Although I believe everything is good in moderation, I can’t seem to bring myself to actually practice that moderation when it comes to social media.
So what did I do? Downloaded an app to help me discipline myself - the irony! I need to look at my phone in order to not look at my phone. While I absolutely love this app and it’s had more positives than negatives, I still find myself struggling with staying productive and having healthier outlets while taking a break from work. In my lifetime, who knows what the impact a constant computer will have on me? We just don’t have that data yet.
I’ve become a victim of the endless loops of TikToks and Reels. And have fallen privy to the dangers of social media fatigue. Yet I still grab my phone every thirty seconds to look at the same things I just looked at. On top of that, even when my feed DOES update, the algorithm shows me what I like to look at most (which is all the same).
So what can we do as a generation of constant computer owners? Here are 4 tips for staying on track and keeping productivity flowing.
Blocker apps that block time or focus features on phones.
Keep it old school. Start paying attention to when you’re grabbing your phone. Ask yourself why you are reaching for your phone right now and assess if you really need to look at it.
Touch your phone, but don’t actually pick it up.
Hide it from sight!
At the end of the day, these devices are a part of our world at work and at home. If you’re feeling like it’s taking over your life, consider a screen detox when you can. But also remember to go easy on yourself when you want to increase productivity and block distractions.
