Let’s talk about something we all secretly know but don’t always admit – our not-so-great work habits, or as I like to call them, bad work habits. You know, those little things we do (or don’t do) that seem harmless but chip away at our productivity and sanity. We’ve all been there. Maybe it’s the endless email checking, the sneaky social media peeks, or that “I’ll do it tomorrow” mantra. But fear not! I’m here to walk you through 20 everyday lousy work habits and, more importantly, how to fix them. So, let’s dive in and turn those bad work habits into wins!
20 Bad Work Habits and How To Fix Them
Bad Work Habit #1 – Multitasking at Work
We all think we’re the king or queen of multitasking, but let’s face it, our brains aren’t wired for it.
Fix:
Focus on one task at a time for better quality and efficiency.
My tip:
I usually start by focusing on high-priority tasks and allocating specific time blocks. Later in the day, when I am less focused, I grab those less-priority tasks that only need a little attention or that I tend to do automatically.
Bad Work Habit #2 – Spending Too Much Time on Emails
Ah, the endless email pit.
Fix:
Set specific times to check emails, like mid-morning and late afternoon, to avoid constant distractions. Organizing emails can significantly boost productivity and reduce stress. One effective strategy is to create specific folders or labels for different categories, such as work, personal, and urgent emails, allowing for easier sorting and prioritization. Utilizing filters and rules to direct incoming emails into these folders automatically can save time and keep your inbox clutter-free. Additionally, setting aside dedicated times for checking and responding to emails can prevent constant distractions and help maintain focus on other tasks throughout the day. My tip: Besides categorizing and prioritizing emails, regularly deleting unwanted or unnecessary emails is crucial for maintaining an organized inbox.
My tip:
Set a routine to periodically review and clear out junk, spam, and old emails that are no longer relevant. Utilizing the search function to find and remove emails from specific senders or with certain keywords can make this process more efficient. This not only declutters your inbox but also helps manage storage space and improves the overall performance of your email application.
Bad Work Habit #3 – Being Poorly Organized
A cluttered desk is a cluttered mind.
Fix:
Invest in a good planner and make a habit of daily to-do lists.
My tip:
Start your day by analyzing your to-do list and reprioritizing it. Do it in a quiet place, free of distractions.
Bad Work Habit #4 – Procrastinating
Procrastinating: The art of delaying what can be done today, is often one of the most common bad work habits.
Fix:
Break tasks into smaller, manageable chunks and start with the easiest.
My tip:
Set smaller work tasks for the current day so you can meet them in terms of schedule, and then drop a task or two from the list. That way, the intimidating and long list won’t stress you, and the feeling that the tasks are achievable will make you manage to do more than you planned.
Bad Work Habit #5 – Getting Stuck in a Task
Sometimes, we hit a wall.
Fix:
Take a short break, walk, or switch to a different task to reset your brain. Break it into smaller, more manageable parts to pinpoint the exact issue.
My tip:
If these steps don’t resolve the issue, seeking help from a colleague or mentor can provide the insight needed to move forward.
Bad Work Habit #6 – Too Many Unplanned Breaks
Breaks are significant, but too many can break your workflow.
Fix:
Schedule short, regular breaks to recharge without losing focus.
Bad Work Habit #7 – Skipping Lunch Break
Working through lunch is a no-go.
Fix:
Always take your lunch break to refuel your body and mind, even if it’s short.
Bad Work Habit #8 – Too Much Caffeine
We love our coffee, but too much can lead to jitters.
Fix:
Limit 1-2 cups daily and stay hydrated with water.
Bad Work Habit #9 – Eating Expensive Processed Delivery Lunch
It’s easy but mostly unhealthy or wallet-friendly.
Fix:
Meal prep lunch with nutritious options to save money and boost energy.
Bad Work Habit #10 – Spending Too Much Time on Social Media
Those quick checks add up.
Fix:
Use website blockers, turn off notifications, and use focus mode on your cellular device.
My tip:
When I get to the office, I put my cell phone in a drawer so I’m not tempted to look at my phone while I’m working.
Bad Work Habit #11 – Saying Yes to Everything
Don’t be a ‘yes’ person at the expense of your sanity.
Fix:
Learn to convey no or delegate tasks when you’re overwhelmed.
My tip:
This is my “winning” answer for this situation- “Thanks for thinking of me for this task. Right now, I’m fully committed to [mention your current important projects or responsibilities]. I want to ensure the highest quality and attention to these projects. Can we talk about this again once I’ve got those under control, or maybe see if someone else is free to take it on?”
Bad Work Habit #12 – Ruminating About Work
Overthinking leads to stress.
Fix:
Practice mindfulness or meditation to clear your head.
My tip:
Doing sports always reduces my stress and creates a positive mindset for the rest of the day after work.
Bad Work Habit #13 – Not Communicating
In the workplace, not communicating sets you back. It leads to mix-ups and delays in team projects and can even weaken the team’s bond and your professional image.
Fix:
Regularly update your team about your progress and challenges.
Bad Work Habit #14 – Doing the Same Tasks Over and Over Again
Doing the Same Tasks Over and Over Again: Falling into this routine is one of those bad work habits that suppress creativity and impede productivity growth.
Fix:
Challenge yourself with new tasks or learn new skills. My tip: be curious and ask questions.
Bad Work Habit #15 – Being Reactive
Always putting out fires?
Fix:
Plan your day and anticipate problems before they arise. Being proactive at work means you can spot and solve problems before they escalate, making everything run more smoothly. It shows your team and bosses that you’re reliable and forward-thinking, which can lead to more opportunities and growth in your career. Taking charge of situations can boost your confidence and job satisfaction, making your work experience more enjoyable and fulfilling.
My tip:
While reassessing my to-do list every morning, I Consider potential challenges and prepare solutions in advance.
Bad Work Habit #16 – Always Being Late
Time management is critical.
Fix:
Set reminders and aim to be 15 minutes early for everything.
My tip:
Go to bed 30 minutes earlier. It will help you rise and shine.
Bad Work Habit #17 – Missing Deadlines
This can hurt your reputation.
Fix:
Break down projects and set mini-deadlines for yourself.
My tip:
I prioritize my to-do list by arranging tasks according to their due dates and importance. Remember to set reminders for key deadlines.
Bad Work Habit #18 – Hating Getting Feedback
Feedback is a gift.
Fix:
View feedback as an opportunity to grow and improve.
Bad Work Habit #19 – Being Negative
Negativity breeds more negativity.
Fix:
Practice gratitude and look for the positives in every situation.
Bad Work Habit #20 – Not Being a Goal Achiever
Goals give direction and bring success and a sense of accomplishment.
Fix:
Set clear, achievable goals and regularly review your progress.
So there you have it – 20 bad work habits and how to kick them to the curb. Nobody’s perfect, and we’re all a work in progress. The key is to be aware of these habits and take small steps towards changing them. Trust me, your future self will thank you for it.
Everyone can improve and grow at work and be more productive. Of course, we also have to love what we do. However, it would help if you considered that there are periods in life when you will be less productive and feel stuck, and there will be other periods when you will feel at your peak. This feeling is acceptable.
Notice that you allocate time for self-study or acquiring a new skill. Avoid getting stuck in the same tasks for a long time.
Now it’s your turn; please share your tips or success stories in the comments. Let’s learn from each other and make our work lives slightly brighter!
