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2 Distractions I Eliminated to Be More Productive
Humans are wired to move towards pleasure and move away from pain. Yet healthy and productive activities are usually less pleasurable and sometimes painful while destructive activities are the opposite. If we don’t proactively design our environment to lessen distraction, it’s easy to fall into a mindless or even toxic lifestyle.
Trying to resist distractions all day is a huge waste of energy and willpower. Instead of trying to fight every battle, do not start the war in the first place. Do not invite temptations into your space. If you “accidentally” brought them in, have the courage to get rid of them if you realize they’re not good for you.
Here are three sources of distractions I eliminated to maximize my productivity.
1. Netflix
The first time I subscribed to Netflix, I binge-watched the sitcom series The Big Bang Theory. I often slept way past midnight and it made me neglect our conversation time with my husband. I can’t remember how many weeks or months this pattern continued before I realized it was unhealthy for me and my relationships. Though I feel so entertained while watching, I feel miserable the next day. I unsubscribed and deleted the app.
Just last month, I re-installed Netflix and re-subscribed because of a movie trailer Netflix advertised on my Facebook Feed. It was an impulsive decision I regretted later on, especially since the movie they advertised was not available! Talk about feeling betrayed. Nevertheless, I “maximized “ the app since I already paid my subscription. I said I wouldn’t start any series, no matter how popular they were, because I know they’re designed to make me binge.
So I only settled for movies. I was patting myself for being “disciplined” yet I was watching one to three movies a day; so much time was wasted. Good thing my husband subtly reminded me how I was throwing away 2–6 hours on a daily basis. I unsubscribed and deleted the app without reaching a month. The amount I paid is nothing in contrast to the potential time I will continue to waste if I stay on the app.
2. Facebook on my Smart Phone
I did not entirely leave Facebook. I can still open it on my desktop. I sell stuff, promote my…
