If you really want to be more productive at work, say goodbye to these 8 habits

Becoming more productive isn’t just about doing more—it’s about doing things differently.

The truth is, most of us don’t have a productivity problem—we have a habit problem. The way we work, the routines we follow, and even the mindset we carry into the office (or home office) can silently sabotage our efficiency. And often, we don’t even realize it’s happening.

If you’re serious about getting more done in less time, it’s time to rethink how you work.

Here are eight habits that might be holding you back—and what to do instead.

1) Multitasking: The Illusion of Productivity

Think you’re getting more done by juggling multiple tasks at once? Think again.

Studies show that multitasking can slash productivity by up to 40%. Why? Because the human brain isn’t designed to focus on multiple complex tasks simultaneously. Instead, it rapidly switches back and forth, leading to more mistakes, more stress, and less efficiency.

The fix? Single-tasking. Focus on one thing at a time, complete it, and move on. You’ll get better results in less time—without the mental exhaustion.

2) Procrastination: The Silent Killer of Productivity

We all do it—putting off tasks until the last minute, convincing ourselves that we “work better under pressure.” But here’s the reality: procrastination leads to rushed work, unnecessary stress, and lower-quality output.

Break big tasks into smaller, manageable steps and set deadlines for each. When you tackle projects in bite-sized pieces, you’ll feel less overwhelmed and more motivated to get started.

3) Skipping Breaks: The Fast Track to Burnout

Working non-stop might make you feel like a productivity machine, but it’s actually slowing you down.

Your brain needs periodic rest to function at peak efficiency. Research proves that regular breaks improve concentration, creativity, and overall performance. The Pomodoro Technique—working in 25-minute sprints with 5-minute breaks—has been a game-changer for countless professionals.

Take scheduled breaks. Step away, reset your mind, and return to work refreshed and ready to go.

4) Neglecting Self-Care: A Productivity Time Bomb

Long hours, skipped meals, and sleepless nights may seem like signs of dedication, but in reality, they’re signs of self-sabotage.

Your body fuels your brain, and when you neglect basic self-care, your cognitive function, focus, and stamina suffer.

Prioritize sleep, eat nutritious meals, and stay hydrated. If you’re serious about peak performance, treat your body like a high-performance machine—it needs the right fuel to run efficiently.

5) Ignoring Mental Health: The Hidden Productivity Drain

The pressure to perform, endless to-do lists, and tight deadlines can take a serious toll on mental well-being. Anxiety, stress, and burnout aren’t just buzzwords—they’re real productivity killers.

Acknowledge that mental health is just as crucial as physical health. Exercise, meditate, talk to someone—whatever it takes to keep your stress in check. A clear mind leads to better decisions, sharper focus, and higher productivity.

6) Perfectionism: The Enemy of Progress

Striving for excellence is great. Striving for perfection? Not so much.

Perfectionism often leads to wasted time, excessive revisions, and an inability to move forward. In business, done is always better than perfect.

Set a high standard but know when to stop. Aim for progress, not perfection. The faster you execute, the faster you learn and improve.

7) Poor Time Management: The Root of All Work Stress

Lost track of time? Ended the day wondering where all the hours went? That’s a time management issue, and it’s a major productivity killer.

Start your day with a clear plan. Prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance. Use productivity tools like task managers, time-blocking techniques, or even simple to-do lists. Time management isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what matters.

8) Overworking: The False Productivity Trap

Burning the midnight oil might make you feel productive, but overworking actually decreases performance. Studies show that working long hours leads to diminishing returns, higher stress, and even health problems.

Work smarter, not longer. Set boundaries, schedule downtime, and prioritize deep work over busy work. Your productivity—and well-being—will thank you.

Final Thoughts: Productivity Is a Mindset Shift

I know firsthand how powerful these changes can be. When I started writing for SmallBizTechnology, I thought working longer hours and juggling multiple tasks would make me more productive. In reality, it led to burnout, stress, and subpar work.

Once I ditched these bad habits—especially multitasking and perfectionism—I saw an immediate improvement. I was writing more articles, meeting deadlines with less stress, and actually enjoying my work.

Productivity isn’t about cramming more into your day—it’s about working smarter, not harder. If you’re struggling with focus or feeling overwhelmed, start by identifying which of these habits are holding you back. Small changes can make a huge difference. Trust me, I’ve been there.

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Picture of Ethan Sterling

Ethan Sterling

Ethan Sterling has a background in entrepreneurship, having started and managed several small businesses. His journey through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship provides him with practical insights into personal resilience, strategic thinking, and the value of persistence. Ethan’s articles offer real-world advice for those looking to grow personally and professionally.

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