Over the past year, I have done much more than I have done before. For instance, I've taken up another instrument and began learning a new language, all while learning various forms of art. This was possible mainly due to a couple processes I implemented, with some that I figured out myself and some that I learned from others. I hope some others will find these useful.
1. Breaking an addiction to being distracted while working.
Before this year in COVID, I used to be addicted to my phone, constantly checking it and being fed useless information. I would do things like tiktok, as well as simply just waste my time checking various forms of social media. However, around last year I decided to break my addiction and to start limiting my time. For instance, I would set 30 minute to hour timers of when I could use my phone, and would only allow myself to use my phone in that time. As a result, my phone usage nearly halved, while also greatly reducing the amount of times I picked up my phone. My productivity began to increase from this point, but there was still more I could do.
2. Techniques to decrease distraction, burnout, and increase focus.
While decreasing my phone usage, I also decided to try some techniques. My favorite technique right now is to set a timer for 30 to 45 minutes, and work for that amount of time without any distractions or stopping. After the timer goes off, I go do something enjoyable, check for missed texts, grab something to eat, and more. Then, I repeat until I have finished all of my work. This technique works great on days that I feel good, but some days I don't feel like working. On those days, I set timers for less time than it would actually take to finish a task. As an example, If I was writing a report, I would give myself an hour on the timer. Then, I would try to finish in an hour. I can never finish, but I can get more done than if I just sat in front of my computer. Lastly, I try to remind myself when I get caught up in my distractions. I will give myself a reminder such as "You're better than this!" or "Don't fall to Zuckerberg's trap!" to get myself off my phone.
3. Being appreciative and present
Lastly, I think being appreciative and present is very important to being productive. If someone is appreciative of what they have, they are more likely to be happy, which increases work productivity. On top of that, I believe that that it gives your work meaning. Knowing why you are working is one of the best motivations to work. Related but not the same is to be present. Being present means that you are taking in the sights and sounds around you, and personally it helps me a lot. For instance, I really enjoy working when there are sights and sounds for me to take in while I work, as it gives me a sort of distraction without being distraction. I think that being present while doing other things is very important, such as talking to others as well as eating. Both are examples of what people often are not present while doing, but by being present, it makes it so much more enjoyable.
