5 Steps to Keep Social Media from Ruining Your Productivity

Published

4 years ago

September 4, 2019

5 Steps to Keep Social Media from Ruining Your Productivity

With busy lives, constant deadlines, and chasing targets, we often find solace in the online world – social media. While they are great to distract you from your not so happening life, the distraction is also the main problem associated with their usage. The added stress of social media and the FOMO makes going about your day very difficult.

One notification is all it takes for you to fall down the rabbit hole and spend hours lost in the wonderland. As a result, productivity stays at a standstill. You again turn to your phone for help on how to stay away from your phone – ironic, isn’t it? Reading and watching for ways to increase your productivity and decrease your distractions, but then somehow again end up on sites that do nothing more than help you waste your time.

Social media use is rampant, and the statistics are mind-boggling. As of January 2017, there are over 1.8 billion active Facebook users, 1 billion people using WhatsApp, and a further 600 million individuals using Instagram.

Perhaps even more frightening, research by Common Sense Media suggests teenagers in America now spend on average 9 hours per day on social networks for enjoyment. And we haven’t even mentioned YouTube yet: people consume roughly 1 billion hours of video per day on the media giant.

The growth forecast is exponential, and the message is loud and clear: social media is here to stay, and it’s going to become even more of a part of our daily lives in the future. With such staggering statistics, it’s no wonder digital marketers are finding that an increasing part of their daily routines is spent navigating the major social platforms.

And while Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube present significant opportunities to our profession, they also can be productivity killers with their addictive powers zapping even the most diligent workers. This is a big reason that many people have started doing social media detoxes where they don’t use any specific or all apps for a specified period of time. I took a break from Facebook myself, and it put a lot into perspective for me.

All of this presents the question as to what steps can we take to mitigate social media from ruining our productivity, whilst still benefitting from its capabilities?

Put succinctly: how can we take advantage of the statistics without becoming one in the process?

Step 1: Define Your Priorities

First, it’s essential to identify what’s genuinely necessary and what’s an obvious distraction.

You may have a real need to be active on Facebook Business Manager throughout the day, but do you really need also to be scrolling through everybody’s food every half hour as well?

And are Instagram & Pinterest really essential to your tasks, or are they just another platform which serves to whet your appetite with more brunch pictures?

Deciding which social media platforms are crucial to your work and which aren’t is the obvious first step.

Make a list of what you need to use on a daily basis, and also of the platforms which swallow up your time often without you even noticing as well.

Step 2: Uninstall the Clutter

Have you got that list handy? Good. Now it’s time to get ruthless.

Uninstall all the apps from your smartphone that serve as a distraction immediately.

It may hurt at first, but ask yourself this: “Is this really contributing toward making me a more productive person and enhancing my capabilities?”. If the answer is no, then cull it.

The reason for starting with your smartphone is because it often sits right next to your laptop or computer when you’re working. All those notifications buzzing off will constantly divert your attention from more critical tasks that warrant serious attention.

In fact, I often keep my phone completely away from my workstation and check it at certain times, but more on that later.

Now turn your attention back to your desktop.

Which websites are eating away at your productivity?

The Chrome Extension Stay Focused is brilliant for this and highly configurable. Allocate specific times you can use your favorite websites so that they fall outside of your committed working hours. Facebook Newsfeed Eradicator also gets a special mention only due to its sheer simplicity and effectiveness. Facebook’s Newsfeed Eradicator replaces your feed with a simple motivational quote.

Step 3: Choose the Right Software to Streamline Your Workflow

Now that you’ve started to clear space, it’s time to streamline your daily social media usage to optimal levels.

This is where intelligent software comes into play.

Software like Hootsuite & Sendible allows you to configure & integrate multiple social media accounts in one convenient setting where you can create content, analyze statistics, and bulk schedule your work for clients.

The beauty of this is that rather than having multiple windows open distracting you at various times of the day, everything gets condensed into one window for maximum productivity.

Both platforms offer free initial trials so you can test them beforehand, but the reality is that software like these save you massive amounts of time and increases your productivity on other tasks for a small monthly fee.

Step 4: Create a Routine

The next step requires discipline, and it’s one you’re going to have to challenge yourself to be faithful to creating a routine.

A routine leads to habits, and excellent practices performed consistently lead to brilliant results.

If you want to get the most out of your social media usage, then you’re going to need to create a routine you can follow.

This may mean limiting checking your social media either in the mornings and the evenings, but whatever you decide to do, make sure you keep reminders to ensure you don’t stray off the task.

Using simple sticky notes reminding yourself by your work station is an excellent way to ensure diligence.

The software and plugins mentioned previously will also be useful in ensuring you stick to your routine. Be sure to take advantage of the technology available to you to mitigate social media at the right times!

Step 5: Be Consistent with Your Rules

Once you’ve implemented all the steps in this plan, you need to make a commitment to stick to them.

This one requires genuine heart and discipline. It’s incredibly tempting to get your daily hit of dopamine from Facebook Likes, but the reality is that it often does more harm than good.

You can always give yourself leeway on weekends and in your spare time when work is less intensive to use social media more frequently. But having a clear understanding and respect for your work at the same time is essential, and being consistent with the rules you’ve put in place is ultimately the best way to enhance your overall productivity.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to curb your distractions will help you improve concentration and as a result, help you be more productive. Eliminating your phone as a distraction takes away a high percentage of unproductive time, leaving us with a lot more time to do things – something more beneficial like reading more.

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Productivity

The TED Talk Effect

Published

2 weeks ago

November 19, 2023

Maria Johnson

In June 2006, the first online TED talk was uploaded, marking the beginning of a revolutionary platform that would transform how we share ideas. TED, which stands for Technology, Entertainment, and Design, has since evolved into a global phenomenon, hosting speakers from diverse backgrounds who share their expertise and experiences to spur inspiration.

The 18-minute time limit imposed on each speaker challenges speakers to focus on clarity, impact, and the core of their ideas. This unique constraint has proven to be a strength, as it demands that speakers be concise, engaging, and purposeful, resulting in talks that are not only informative but also captivating.

These talks have challenged preconceived notions and inspired individuals to think beyond their immediate surroundings. Whether you’re taking a break from your online casino experience at Playcroco Casino or seeking inspiration, exploring these talks can provide a refreshing perspective on the world around you.

How TED Talks Leverage the Art of Storytelling

Human psychology has an inherent affinity for storytelling, and TED Talks have mastered creating compelling narratives that resonate with audiences. A staggering 65% of the information we remember comes from stories, highlighting the power of narrative in communication.

TED Talks aim to create an emotional connection long after the talk concludes. Speakers infuse their narratives with emotion, whether through personal experiences or humor. They draw empathy, engagement, and a genuine connection with the audience. This emotional resonance makes ideas memorable and impactful.

Examples of Memorable TED Talks

Numerous TED Talks stand as shining examples of the art of storytelling.

Sir Ken Robinson’s “Do Schools Kill Creativity?” is a great example, having already garnered over 22 million views. Robinson takes the audience through his childhood experiences and observations to convey a powerful message about the need for educational reform.

“The Danger of a Single Story” is another impactful talk by Chimamanda N. Adichie that explores the impact of narratives on shaping our understanding of the world. Adichie eloquently argues that a single story fosters misunderstanding and reinforces prejudices, inhibiting our ability to see the rich diversity that defines humanity.

Jon Jandai’s TED Talk, “Life is easy. Why do we make it so hard?” stands out as a thought-provoking exploration of the simplicity of life and the unnecessary complexities we often impose upon ourselves. He advocates for a return to a simpler way of life, where contentment is derived from an appreciation of the present.

Additionally, Jill Bolte Taylor’s “My Stroke of Insight” is noteworthy. Taylor, a neuroscientist, recounts her personal experience with stroke and how it helped her understand the human brain. By merging scientific knowledge with a deeply personal story, Taylor creates an informative and deeply moving narrative.

How to Get the Most from TED Talks

Whether you’re a student, professional, or lifelong learner, extracting the utmost value from TED Talks can greatly enrich your understanding of the world. Here’s a guide on how to get the most from these presentations:

Create a Playlist

TED talks cover many topics, from science and technology to arts and culture. Having a personalized playlist ensures that you engage with content that resonates with your passions and goals.

Select Diversely

While it’s great to explore topics you’re familiar with, don’t shy away from unfamiliar territories. TED Talks provide a unique opportunity to broaden your horizons. Choose talks that challenge your perspectives and introduce you to new ideas and experiences.

Set Aside Dedicated Time

Juggling the demands of a busy schedule is challenging, but dedicating some time to TED Talks is a worthwhile investment in your learning journey. By deliberately setting aside moments in your day, you create a focused environment for absorbing the rich insights and perspectives that TED offers.

Explore Additional Resources

Many TED speakers have written books and articles or have additional online content. After watching a talk, delve deeper into the speaker’s work to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

Attend TEDx Events

TEDx events are independently organized TED-like experiences at the local level. Attend these events to engage with live speakers, take part in discussions, and connect with like-minded individuals within your community.

Stay Updated

TED continually releases new talks, and staying updated ensures you remain at the forefront of groundbreaking ideas.

Subscribe to the TED newsletter or follow TED on social media to receive regular updates.

Apply What You Learn

The true value of TED Talks lies in applying the lessons. Consider how the ideas presented can be integrated into your personal or professional life. Challenge yourself to take actionable steps based on the insights gained from the talks.

Engage in Discussions

TED Talks often spark meaningful conversations. Share your favorite talks with friends, colleagues, or online communities. Discussing the content with others will enhance your understanding and expose you to different interpretations and insights.

The TED Talk effect represents a shift in communication, where brevity takes top priority. It’s an invaluable resource for those seeking to engage in a meaningful exploration of the ideas that shape our world. The legacy of TED Talks lies in their ability to inspire, inform, and unite a global audience in the pursuit of knowledge and understanding. So go ahead and embark on a journey of enlightenment and inspiration through the enriching world of TED Talks.

Productivity

Building Confidence to Live Your Most Fulfilled Life

Published

3 weeks ago

November 10, 2023

Maria Johnson

Achieving your dream life isn’t easy. Success frequently requires you to step outside your comfort zone, face your fears, and venture out into the unknown. You have to believe it’s possible and, more importantly, believe that you can! This is harder than it sounds – they don’t teach you how to believe in yourself in school.

Of course, hard doesn’t mean impossible. You can learn how to believe in yourself. You can build up to it, slowly and steadily, until you’re ready to live your best life. The following are a few ways to work on and grow your self-confidence levels:

Build Up Your Body

Do you look after your body? Your body is one of the best assets you have. When you look after your body, you are full of good health. You look good, have the energy you need to go after your goals, and feel good about yourself. Having a healthy body will give you a nice self-confidence boost. To build up your body, eat right, follow a fitness routine, and get adequate rest.

Build Up Your Mind

Just like building up your body helps your confidence, so does building up your mind. There are several ways to work on your mind. You can learn to manage stress better, build up a more supportive inner voice, and develop more willpower and discipline, for example. A strong mind allows you to think clearly, reduce confusion, and, ultimately, will make you more confident in yourself.

Build Up Your Wealth

Money can’t buy happiness, but it does give you material security and safety. Getting into a better financial situation will make you more confident about yourself, not to mention practically finance any life goals you may have. An effective way to build up money is to find ways to save money and cut back on expenses. Eliminate luxuries, focus on necessities, and live within your means. Refinancing is a clever way to save money. It helps you obtain more favorable terms on your existing loan by decreasing the equity in your home. It frees up cash and reduces the payment you make per month on your mortgage.

Find Good People to Connect With

The people you interact with frequently have a big impact on your confidence levels. It’s easier to believe in yourself when you’re around people who don’t judge you too harshly and are actively encouraging of all your efforts. If you don’t have a close circle of supportive family members or friends already, you could attempt to form new connections. Consider joining support groups, attending events that interest you, and similar to find like-minded people.

Consistently Set and Achieve Goals

It’s easier to feel more confident when you have achievements to be confident about. As such, it’s a good idea to set and achieve growth goals for yourself consistently. This can be anything – being more fit, learning a new skill, being more organized, and anything else. Even small achievements matter and add up.

For added effect, you can create an achievements journal for yourself to write in every night.

Find a More Rewarding Job

Again, your job has an impact on your self-confidence levels. When you’re successful at work, you feel good about yourself and believe you can do anything. If your job isn’t rewarding enough or is actively harming your self-confidence, switching to a more rewarding one will work wonders for your self-confidence.

Preparing a stellar-looking CV can help you land a more rewarding job (and make you feel good about your achievements). The best CVs highlight your academic background, career experience, and skills. To make a more professional-looking resume, you can use a free online CV builder. Such tools come with pre-built templates that you can customize further with text, photos, and colors. Here is a CV maker for the task.

Believe in Your Higher Self, Too

The truth is even the most confident people don’t know everything or aren’t strong all the time. But everyone has an in-built guidance system (aka their intuition or gut feeling) that can help them make the right choices when they’re feeling lost. It never leads you astray. Also, there is always a helping hand and a safety net. Even if you make mistakes, your Higher Self has your back. Believing that can greatly bolster your self-confidence.

Get Professional Assistance

You don’t have to take the journey to better physical health alone. You can sign up for a Functional Medicine program for an impactful and long-lasting health boost. Look for a program that offers a range of services, from detox to holistic testing, that are designed to find and eliminate roadblocks in your journey to wellness and health.

To build up your confidence, you’ll have to work on your lifestyle. Everything you do daily, from diet to exercise, will have an impact on your self-belief. Building up positive physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual habits will go a long way toward boosting your self-confidence, which will ultimately help you manifest your dream life.

Productivity

All About Blomberg Appliances: Popular Models And Usage Insights

Published

1 month ago

October 19, 2023

Maria Johnson

For those who prioritize efficient, innovative, and dependable household appliances, Blomberg has established itself as a reputable brand. Blomberg consistently delivers high-quality products, spanning a range from washing machines and dryers to refrigerators and dishwashers. However, to fully optimize your investment, it’s vital to familiarize yourself with both the popular models and the intricacies of operating Blomberg appliances. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into Blomberg appliances, showcasing some of their most sought-after models and providing valuable insights into their usage. Whether you’re contemplating the purchase of a Blomberg appliance or are already a proud owner, this comprehensive guide will assist you in making the most of your investment. Should you ever encounter issues, don’t hesitate to explore Blomberg appliance repair Toronto services for the solutions you need.

The Popularity of Blomberg Appliances

Blomberg is known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability, making it a top choice for modern households. The brand offers a wide range of appliances, each designed to meet specific needs while delivering outstanding performance. Here are some of the most popular Blomberg appliance categories:

Washers and Dryers: Blomberg offers a variety of washing machines and dryers known for their efficiency, reliability, and advanced features. Many models feature quick wash cycles, steam technology, and heat pump dryers for energy-efficient drying.
Refrigerators: Blomberg refrigerators come in various sizes and configurations, including French doors, bottom freezers, and side-by-side designs. They are celebrated for their advanced cooling technology, ample storage space, and sleek designs.
Dishwashers: Blomberg dishwashers are known for their quiet operation, efficient cleaning cycles, and innovative features like flexible loading options and water-saving technology.
Cooking Appliances: Blomberg offers a wide range of cooking appliances, including gas and electric ranges, wall ovens, and cooktops. These appliances are favored for their precise cooking controls and convenient features.

Popular Models of Blomberg Appliances

Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular models of Blomberg appliances:

1. Blomberg WM98400SX Front Load Washer

Features: This front-load washer offers a spacious 2.5 cu. ft. drum capacity and advanced features like AquaStop Plus for water leak protection, and an Inverter Motor for quiet and efficient operation.

2. Blomberg DHP24412W 24″ Ventless Heat Pump Front Load Electric Dryer

Features: The DHP24412W dryer offers a heat pump for energy efficiency, a large 4.1 cu. ft. drum capacity, and a variety of drying programs, including a wool cycle for delicate items.

3. Blomberg BRFB1450SSN 28″ Stainless Steel French Door Refrigerator

Features: This French door refrigerator boasts a 13.3 cu. ft. capacity, digital display, LED lighting, and a water and ice dispenser. It’s Energy Star certified for efficiency.

4. Blomberg DWT81800SS Built-In Dishwasher

Features: This built-in dishwasher offers an array of wash programs, a stainless steel tub for durability, and a delay start feature. It’s praised for its low noise level and efficient cleaning.

5. Blomberg BIRP34450SS 30″ Pro-Style Induction Range

Features: This pro-style induction range features a 4-zone induction cooktop, a 5.7 cu. ft. oven capacity, and 13 cooking modes. It’s designed for precision cooking and is both stylish and functional.

Nuances of Using Blomberg Appliances

To make the most of your Blomberg appliances, consider the following usage insights:

Read the Manual: Always start by reading the user manual that comes with your Blomberg appliance. Each appliance may have unique features and requirements, and the manual provides essential guidance.
Proper Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your appliance in excellent condition. Follow the maintenance schedule provided in the manual and clean or replace filters, gaskets, and other components as required.
Energy Efficiency: Blomberg appliances are designed for energy efficiency. To maximize this, use the appliance’s energy-saving modes and load it to capacity whenever possible to save water and electricity.
Loading Considerations: When using a dishwasher or a washer, be mindful of how you load the machine. Overloading can lead to suboptimal cleaning while underloading wastes water and energy.
Water Quality: The quality of your water can affect appliance performance. Consider using a water softener if your water is hard, as hard water can lead to mineral build-up in your appliances.
Regular Cleaning: Clean the exterior and interior of your appliances regularly to prevent dirt and grease buildup. Use manufacturer-recommended cleaning products and methods.
Proper Installation: Ensure your Blomberg appliance is properly installed, leveled, and connected according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. This helps prevent damage and ensures optimal performance.

When to Consider Blomberg Appliance Repair Toronto

While Blomberg appliances are known for their reliability, there may come a time when you need professional assistance.

Consider contacting Blomberg appliance repair in Toronto under the following circumstances:

Your appliance is still under warranty, and you want to avoid voiding the warranty by attempting repairs yourself.
The issue is beyond your expertise or requires specialized diagnostic equipment.
Safety hazards are involved, such as electrical problems or gas leaks.
Your troubleshooting efforts haven’t resolved the issue, or the problem persists.

Conclusion

Blomberg appliances have earned their reputation for quality, innovation, and efficiency. To make the most of your investment in these appliances, understanding their features, popular models, and nuances of usage is crucial. Regular maintenance, proper cleaning, and mindful usage can help you enjoy years of trouble-free service from your Blomberg appliances. When you encounter issues that are beyond your expertise or need professional attention, don’t hesitate to contact Blomberg appliance repair Toronto to ensure your appliances continue to serve you at their best.