This list was published by TED.com.
Technology. Technology everywhere
The modern age surrounds us with screens, computers, mobile phones, noise and audio-visual effects. Thus it is no surprise that we have become unable to focus on a single task for a longer period of time. Reduce your exposure to technology, have planned digital blackouts and turn everything around you off when you are working.
"Fake" procrastination
Many people are so busy with mundane, but supposedly important tasks that they have no time to deal with larger strategic and more important ones. This leads to "fake" procrastination, in other words postponement of duties while seemingly being busy and hard-working. Sometimes you should set aside such everyday tasks and work on the really important ones instead.
No breaks and no time for oneself
There is a common belief that having no breaks means being productive. In fact, the opposite is the case: if you leave no time for yourself and relaxation, you will end up wasting even more time due to reduced work efficiency and productivity.
Being busy seen as a virtue
Nowadays, chronic busyness is often regarded as a virtue: especially in certain circles (mostly managerial), this idea is extremely widespread. But a truly efficient worker is able to organise and plan their work so they do not become stressed, they have time to rest and are not permanently busy.
Lack of strategic planning
As mentioned above, people are apparently so overwhelmed by the chaos of everyday work that they have no time to stop and make certain strategic decisions that would in the end allow them more time for work than dealing endlessly with mundane, urgent tasks. No matter how busy you are, you should always find time for strategic planning.
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