Stop Now! These Habits Are Killing Your Productivity It is more than you even realise

By Tripti Narain

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

You're reading Entrepreneur India, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media.

shutterstock

You don't even realise what you are doing to yourself by practising some habits that are counterproductive and get in the way of achieving success at workplace. So, what is it that is hurting your productivity - is it too much work, too many distractions or the soft boundaries around you that lets in too much? Let's find out:

You can't say No

We cannot please people all the time. For most of us, saying no is extremely difficult as we want to be seen as an efficient employee, a likeable person, helpful co-worker or a perfect team player, but if you say yes to too many things, you will not be able to do them all and end up not being that efficient worker or that helpful co-worker. It is counterproductive, to say the least. Learn to say No, it is alright.

Multitasking

This keeps us busy without doing anything! Your mind is so full of work that your body actually does no work. You start to do one thing, jump to another midway, then start something else, and end up not finishing any work. This gets you tired and frustrated. Take up one task, complete it and then move to another, don't allow yourself to get distracted.

Biggest Threat to Work

Internet browsing and cell phones - particularly Facebook and WhatsApp are the biggest enemies of productivity. You quickly try to finish work to reply to a WhatsApp message or check 'likes' on your selfie post. Checking internet, browsing websites - all this is so impulsive that we don't realise how they eat up our time and we end up rushing through our work as the day nears ends.

Procrastinating

One tends to put off the most difficult work for later in the day. We like to start our day with easy work that can be done in least time. By putting off work for later there are high chances of it not getting done at all. Don't let such a situation arise, get that difficult, boring work off your back, quickly.

Compulsive digital hoarder

Do you like to keep every email and document thinking you might need it later? Saving every document takes up space on your computer and most likely you will not find 'that' important mail when you need, if your inbox is cluttered and disorganised. Respond to emails on time, don't let them pile up, delete the ones you have responded to. Keep your desktop clean, it helps increase your productivity.

Tripti Narain

Former Managing Editor, Entrepreneur Media (India)

A Digital enthusiast, news specialist, entertainment junkie, unsolicited opinion giver, bona fide foodie and a Delhi lover. Join me @TriptiAbhishek on Twitter

Living

The 3 Lifestyle Habits That Made Me Sharper, Stronger and More Successful

These three simple yet powerful lifestyle changes transformed my productivity, energy and mindset. Here's how you can do the same.

News and Trends

Kolkata-Based Lab-Grown Diamond Brand Jewelbox Secures USD 3.2 Mn

The startup will primarily use the funds to expand its retail footprint, growing from eight stores to 30 locations by the end of this year.

Business Ideas

70 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2025

We put together a list of the best, most profitable small business ideas for entrepreneurs to pursue in 2025.

News and Trends

ITC to Acquire Mother Sparsh in Next 2-3 years, Increases its Stake to 49% by Additional Investment of INR 81 Cr.

ITC first invested in Mother Sparsh in 2021 as part of its strategy to expand in the natural personal care and digital-first brand segment

Side Hustle

This Couple Started a Side Hustle to Improve a 'Terribly Made' Bathroom Essential. Now the Business Earns More Than $3 Million a Year.

Michael Fine and Lisa Schulner-Fine launched lifestyle brand Quiet Town in 2016 and have been growing it ever since.

Business Solutions

You and Your Kids Can Develop Future-Proof Tech Skills for Only $56

Develop future-proof tech skills even if you have no previous tech experience, such as data storytelling, Python, ChatGTP, Internet of Things and more.