It’s a common lament that there aren’t enough hours in the day. But we all get 24 hours. So why is it that some people achieve much more than average? The simple answer is distractions. Most of us are battling with (and sometimes losing to) the myriad of distractions surrounding us. As we attempt to complete tasks, our process may be interrupted by any number of the following distractions: internal thoughts and worries, notifications, phone calls, people, pets, sounds and other tasks.
- Remove (or minimise) digital distractions
Phones, smartwatches, and other devices are huge distractions, so it’s a good idea to either turn notifications off or put your device on silent and out of reach. Another option is enabling aeroplane mode while completing important tasks. We often need our computers to work, but we can still remove digital distractions by turning off email notifications and using focus modes to block time-wasting apps. AI-driven productivity tools, such as website blockers and automated scheduling assistants, can also help you stay on track.
- Have a singular focus
There is evidence that multitasking is not an efficient way to approach tasks because it takes much longer than we think for our brains to switch between them. As highlighted in this research, doing more than one task at a time, especially more than one complex task, takes a toll on productivity.
Commit to focusing on one specific, priority task at a time. The key is to dedicate an uninterrupted block of time to each task rather than moving between them. AI-powered focus timers, like those found in smart assistants, can help structure your work sessions.
- Daily three
This hack is so simple it would be easy to overlook its helpfulness in creating focus and clarity. Every day, identify and write down the three most vital tasks you want to achieve and do them. Importantly, at least one of these tasks should move you toward a bigger, long-term goal. Don’t get caught up only responding to urgent tasks—make sure you’re also prioritising those that matter the most to you.
- Work in productive bursts
We shouldn’t be attempting tasks for hours on end without a break. Shorter, focused time spent on a task, followed by an effective break, has been proven to increase productivity. A good method for achieving this is following the “52 and 17 rule” which we wrote about here. Essentially, you apply deep focus to a necessary task for 52 minutes and then give yourself a 17-minute break in which you might exercise, relax or eat something. The downtime replenishes your focus and fuels your motivation, creativity and productivity. Others might prefer the Pomodoro Technique, which follows the same principle but in shorter bursts with 25-minute stretches of focused work broken by five-minute breaks. AI-powered time management apps can now automate these cycles, offering personalised break reminders and activity suggestions.
- Take effective breaks
Sitting at your desk trying to work while being distracted and unproductive is a huge waste of time that will only leave you feeling guilty and stressed. After achieving bursts of focused work, you need to give yourself little breaks such as making a coffee, going for a walk, stretching, meditating, reading, tidying up or having a short nap. You’ll be far more productive and focused if you don’t try to sit at your desk non-stop for many hours.
Longer breaks in the form of holidays or staycations are also vital. Try to plan and book in your annual leave rather than waiting until you feel burnt out. Think about how motivated you’ll be to get work done knowing you have a tropical island holiday coming up in a couple of weeks.
- Create better systems and habits
If you don’t have appropriate systems in place, you won’t manage to achieve your goals. James Clear, bestselling author of the motivating Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones, put it this way: “You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.” His book identifies the incredible difference that making small adjustments to our habits can have over time (both good and bad). Consider how you can improve your habits and systems for greater success. As Clear puts it, “Success is the product of daily habits—not once-in-a-lifetime transformations.”
In 2025, AI and automation can play a massive role in habit formation. Apps that track your habits, suggest optimisations, and provide real-time feedback can help you build momentum towards your goals.
- Make healthy choices
We all know this, but sometimes we need a little reminder that a healthy diet, regular exercise and plenty of sleep are the building blocks for success. If you look after these three pillars, then your ability to achieve your goals skyrockets.
With advancements in wearable health tech, tracking and optimising these key areas has never been easier. AI-powered fitness and nutrition apps can now provide personalised meal plans, exercise recommendations and sleep coaching tailored to your specific needs. In 2025, making healthy choices is no longer just about willpower – it’s about leveraging smart technology to support your wellbeing and productivity.