Executive Coach & Managing Director at SMA Consulting. Helping Leaders Transcend, Accelerate Change and Transformation Outcomes.
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In speaking with various leaders across multiple organizations there is a consensus that they continually find themselves facing numerous distractions on a regular basis. As a result, they are aware their company is likely not functioning at optimal efficiency.
The workplace culture in this environment is often characterized by low levels of commitment, morale and performance as well as high absenteeism and turnover. According to a Gartner, Inc. 2021 survey, "Employees in the hybrid world are 2.54 times more likely to experience digital distractions than employees in the on-site world." A distraction-free environment is essential for employees and leaders to be focused and perform at their best.
So what are the causes of distractions for leaders, and how can they be avoided?
How many times have you started working on a task only to find yourself distracted by something else? It could be an email, a phone call or even just a thought that pops into your head. Whatever the case may be, distractions are a common occurrence in our lives. At an organizational level, they can also manifest in some great ideas and initiatives but distract teams from delivering their true purpose and shared vision. While distractions can sometimes be difficult to avoid, there are certain things you can do to reduce their frequency and become a more effective leader in the process. Here are ten tips on how to avoid distractions and become a more effective leader:
1. Be aware of your triggers.
What are the things that tend to distract you? If you know what your triggers are, you can be more mindful of them and take steps to avoid them.
2. Eliminate unnecessary distractions.
The first step to avoiding distractions is to identify (step one) and eliminate any unnecessary ones. This might involve turning off notifications on your phone or email, decluttering your workspace or setting aside specific times for breaks. By removing distractions that don't serve a purpose, you'll be able to focus more on the task at hand and be more productive as a result.
3. Focus on one thing at a time.
When you're trying to focus on a task, it's important to give it your full attention. This means avoiding multitasking and instead focusing on one thing at a time. Not only will this help you complete the task more efficiently and effectively, but it will also help you avoid making mistakes.
4. Take breaks regularly.
Although it might seem counterintuitive, taking breaks can help you be more productive. It is essential for leaders to encourage their team to take breaks and have downtime. This allows them to recharge and be more productive when they return to work. It also shows that you value their time and understand that they need time to recuperate. Leaders must also learn to take breaks themselves.
5. Learn to say no.
Sometimes we can get caught up in trying to do too many things at once, especially when multiple leaders are competing on priorities. If you find yourself taking on more than you can handle, learn to say no. This will help you focus on the key priorities at hand and avoid getting overwhelmed. Just remember that it takes practice and discipline to overcome distractions; don't get discouraged if you find yourself slipping up from time to time.
6. Reduce meetings.
One of the biggest distractions for leaders is meetings. According to an MIT study, "only around 50% of meeting time is effective, well used, and engaging—and these effectiveness numbers drop even lower when it comes to remote meetings." There are a few ways to reduce meetings. First, you can ask yourself if a meeting is necessary. If it is not, then don’t have it. Second, limit the amount of time that you spend in meetings. Third, make sure that each meeting has a specific purpose and that it is focused on achieving that purpose. Lastly, encourage your team to take responsibility for their own work and to only come to you when they really need to.
7. Use your peak productivity periods wisely.
This is the time when you will naturally be able to get the most work done and be the most productive. During your peak productivity periods, you should focus on the most important tasks that need to be completed.
8. Delegate, and build a strong team.
It is important to remember that you cannot do everything yourself and that you will need help from others to achieve your goals. One of the most important aspects of delegation is communicating with your team. You need to be clear about what you expect from each member of your team and what their roles and responsibilities are. When you delegate tasks, it is important to agree on realistic deadlines for completion. This will ensure that everyone on your team is aware of the timeline for the task and will help keep everyone focused and on track.
9. Lead by example.
If you're constantly checking your phone or getting up to chat with co-workers, your team will likely follow suit. Instead, set the tone by staying focused on your work and encouraging others to do the same. Communicate your expectations clearly. Your team members should know what is expected of them in terms of productivity and focus. If you're looking for uninterrupted work time, let them know in advance so they can be prepared.
10. Create a positive work environment.
Remember that a positive work environment goes a long way in terms of avoiding distractions and promoting productivity. If you create an open and supportive environment where people feel appreciated, they'll be more likely to stay focused and motivated—and less likely to get sidetracked by petty office politics or drama.
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