#work distraction

[thewonderfulwizardofwords]

Working from home has many perks, but also many hazards. Sometimes they're the same.

It's unfathomably hard to focus on spreadsheets right now.

[gigats-blog]

3 Distractions That Boost Productivity

Everyone suggests cutting out distractions during the work day in order to improve in your career and get work done. But when it comes to eliminating distractions, it’s important that you pick the right ones. For a successful career, everyone needs a little brain break during the day. Carefully working minor breaks into your day can help you tackle tasks more effectively.

While certain distractions can certainly get you off track at work, some can actually make you more creative and lead to problem solving. According to Harvard University scientist Shelly H. Carson, distractions can force an “incubation period” in which the brain continues to work away on the problem subconsciously. Providing your brain with a break allows you to reboot and get creative. Take a look at some ideas on how to amp up your productivity with these must-have distractions:

Look at Baby Animals

As silly as it sounds, cat gifs and panda cams do a little more than just improve your mood during the work day. They actually trigger a positive emotion associated with motivation and processing. According to Japanese researcher, Hiroshi Nittono, looking at cute animal pictures at work has a positive effect on productivity. Still skeptical? Participants in his study performed tasks requiring focused attention more carefully after viewing cute images. Next time you get a break during the day, pull up some cute photos of animals in order to boost your productivity.

Exercise

A regular exercise routine can make you happier, smarter and more energetic. Additionally, it is a habit that can make you mentally sharper. According to Robert Pozen, author of Extreme Productivity, as we age, our bodies generate fewer and fewer brain cells, but early research in mice has found that exercise can help prevent the slowdown. This means, that people who exercise daily have a bigger advantage in the work place. Start a daily exercise routine in order to feel more energized and excel in the office. 

Meditate

Stress often accompanies hard work, which can in turn hurt productivity and concentration. Meditating can help alleviate the issues associated with stress. In fact, in a recent study from the University of Washington, meditation was found to help workers concentrate better, remember more work details, stay energized, and experience less negative moods. If you feel yourself getting stressed, find a quiet place to relax and reflect.

The correct disctrations throughout the day can help workers reboot creativity and enjoy a much needed break from the workday. Boost your productivity by doing the three things listed above in order to improve your work and career.