5 Productivity Killers That Will Absolutely Ruin Your Business (& How To Beat Them)

If there's just one thing that unites all successful business owners, it's hard work. 

Look, nobody is saying that hard work alone will lead you to success. I've seen plenty of grafters fail over the years because their ideas were utter BS. 

All I'm saying is that a lack of hard work will kill any hopes of success before you've even started.

By their very nature, you won't naturally see the blindspots that are currently holding you back. So, let me open your eyes to some of the most commonly overlooked productivity killers out there. Make a conscious effort to overcome them, and the future of your company will look a whole lot brighter.

#1. Self-Doubt

In some ways, a little uncertainty can work wonders for your business. It shows you care about the venture, and will probably encourage you to analyze key decisions. However, self-doubt can stand in your way of actually getting things done. Now is the time to take charge.

My guide to dealing with self-limiting beliefs can help you avoid the hurdles caused by self-doubt. Meanwhile, courses in self-confidence, via classes or hypnotherapy may also aid the cause. Sometimes, though, you simply need to trust your gut instincts and make things happen.

Besides, when you act with confidence, it can inspire your employees too. In turn, this can influence the client experiences.

#2. Poor Health

Healthy body, healthy mind. Honestly, the amount of owners that expect their minds to stay engaged when their physical health is in a poor state is nothing short of staggering. Healthy sleep patterns, staying active, and good hydration are all key features.

Meanwhile, untreated health conditions will harm your speed of productivity even if you don't realize it. Finding the right eyeglasses here, or hearing aids supports for your arthritis are all good examples. By removing the distractions, you can focus on actually working to your full potential at all times.

If you leave health conditions untreated, you will soon stop noticing the issues. Sadly, though, your work will continue to slide.

#3. Unnecessary Activities

You're bored of hearing it and I'm bored of saying it. Nonetheless, time is money. Dedicating your time to the wrong tasks is killing your business. Even if you possess the necessary skills, the prospect of handling admin and customer care duties will stop you running the company.

It's not what you wanna hear, but managing the company isn't all about you. Avoiding unnecessary travel through the use of video conferencing is a great move. Likewise, cutting team meetings down to 20 minutes, and sending a group message, later on, is ideal. Let your team do what you pay them to do!

Finally, on this note, try to avoid tasks done solely for vanity. If it isn't going to boost your profile or productivity, lose it. Focus on what actually aids your bottom line.

#4. Outdated Tech

Modern tech evolves at a scarily rapid rate. If you are guilty of persisting with outdated features, it may slow your productivity. Even if it doesn't, the fact that your competitors are increasing theirs will bring a similar outcome. In truth, though, computers and machinery usually need updating every few years.

At the very least, they should be updated to incorporate modern features. This could include using automated processes or tracking. You can read more about concepts like 3D printing to see how it removes delays by avoiding the need to wait for part deliveries or prototypes. Modern approaches deliver better results.

Besides, the stress caused by computer crashes or inferior tech capabilities will impact your employees too. It will absolutely ruin the morale across the business.

#5. Staff Turnover

People are at the heart of all modern business ventures. By now, you know that there is a demand to find the best employees. This could mean using a combination of on-site, outsourced, and remote workers. It's one thing to find the right candidates, but true success stems from keeping them. 

I'm not gonna go all Richard Branson on how you should treat them. Still, there is no doubt that a lower rate of staff turnover will allow the business to progress at a quicker rate. It saves the need to keep training people on the company's methods. As well as onboarding and other time-consuming tasks.

When you are constantly worrying about recruitment and HR, it will take its toll. When the team is blessed with stability, though, it can become stronger by the day. 

Guaranteed success? Not exactly. But it'll certainly boost your chances.