I know that it can be hard to come to terms with, but these habits are seriously killing your productivity. I’ve been there too, and at times I still find these habits hard to break. I have those days where I have loads of homework that need to get done, but I just keep making excuses for why I can’t do them. What’s even crazier is that sometimes I have a couple of weeks to do an assignment, but I just push it off. Are you guilty of that too?
Well, I decided to identify the habits that are killing my productivity, and then I found ways to deal with them! Here are the 6 bad habits I found that absolutely kill productivity and how to break them! Knowing these habits help us get closer and closer to healthier ones!
Related// Amazing Ways to Increase your Productivity in 5 Steps
Sleeping in every single day
Rolling out of bed at random hours of the day can make you groggy. Sure, it’s great to sleep in every now and then, but every day can be a bit much. Try to wake up a little earlier than you typically do on at least 3 days out of the week. Now you have more time in the day to complete whatever needs to be done!
Dedicate your early wake-up days to being productive. These days get your homework out of the way, meal prep, workout, do what makes you feel most productive. And then you have your other days to relax! Of course, it doesn’t have to be 3 days out of the week, but going from waking up midday to morning time can be a shock. So do what feels best for you, and try not to rush it!
Here are some habits I like to practice in the morning, that fuel and increase my productivity, they may help you too!
Distractions!
We all have them, the television, our phones, or even other people. Remove those distractions from around you!
I’m not sure about you, but sometimes I get so distracted when I study with my friends. One moment we’re studying and the next thing you know we’re talking about the upcoming weekend, and who Johnny likes lol. The bottom line is, If you know you’re not productive when working around your friends, don’t do it! I know it’s hard, but it can be done!
On another note, your television can be another big distraction. I know you may tell yourself that having the tv playing Gossip Girl in the background will in no way affect your concentration while doing your homework. But we both know that’s not true because as soon as Serena and Blair get to talking about their next drama-filled event, you’ll be hooked! Cut off the television and turn up your lecture, you can do it, girl!
Another BIG distraction is phones (no surprise here). I know, I know, it’s so tempting to see Gigi Hadid’s cute baby on Instagram and catch up on your Snapchat streaks. But that has nothing to do with your work. Try putting your phone in another room while you’re doing your work. This way, your phone won’t be within reach, and you’ll have to go to an entirely different room to get it.
Not having a routine
I know since COVID rolled around, many of us are out of our daily routines. Many of us are now working from home or doing online classes. Which is a much different routine than what we’re used to.
No one is there to keep you accountable anymore, and your productivity is all dependent on you. Not having an idea of what needs to get done just leads to disorganization, and definitely missed assignments.
With that being said, plan out your schedule so that way you know exactly what needs to be done. Here’s the planner I like to use to keep track of my assignments and priorities. Having set times to do specific tasks allows your brain to adjust to your new normal. Eventually, all of the habits you start practicing are done in just a blink of the eye.
A Cluttered space
A cluttered space equals a cluttered mind. Tidy up your work environment so you can direct all of your focus on your work rather than any mess around you. I find that a messy space really affects how much work I get done. So, before I start any assignment, I always set up my workspace with pencils, pens, notebooks, and any other essentials I may need. Most importantly, I always take away anything that is messy or just shouldn’t be on my workspace.
Working for hours without a break
Have you ever had those moments where you just work and work and work until your brain fills fuzzy? Well, I’ve had them too! During those times, I think that breaks are my enemy, and the only way I can be “productive” is by working.
Well, news flash! Your brain needs a break! Yes, you may be getting work done, but you’re certainly not doing any favors to your well being! You owe it to yourself take a break; it doesn’t have to be a long break (just 30 minutes will do!). Just step back, take a breath, and allow yourself to rest.
Waiting until the last minute
a.k.a. procrastination.
You didn’t think that I wouldn’t include this one, did you? Procrastinating is something that all of us struggle with (don’t pretend you don’t!). Yes, I know most of us to procrastinate to avoid the unwanted negative feelings that come with work. But, instead, start thinking of how you’ll feel after your work is done! You’ll probably feel relieved, accomplished, and overall just freer!
Break those Bad Habits!
I challenge you to cut at least 1 of these 6 habits that are killing your productivity this week! Of course, habits take some time to break, so be kind to yourself and realize that it won’t happen overnight. But, remember you can do anything if you set your mind to it!
xo, Katie
this is a great list of reminders. thanks! sharing this good stuff.
Thank you so much for reading!
Definitely guilty to maybe more than one of the habits on your list 🙁 Thank you for the inspiration and motivation! Want to kick my sleeping-in habit in 2021!
Definitely took a wake-up call on my end too hahaha. Thanks for reading and good luck!!
Excellent post! So many people have problems in this area. I used to leave everything till the last minute, but now I’ve finally broken that bad habit.