Productivity isn’t just about working harder—it’s about working smarter. As developers, we face an endless barrage of distractions, from notifications to mindless scrolling, that can derail our flow. Instead of just trying to “power through,” what if we took a more strategic approach? By asking ourselves the right questions, we can pinpoint inefficiencies, recognize our biggest focus-killers, and refine our workflow. Here are six simple but powerful questions to help you eliminate distractions, boost efficiency, and become a better coder every day.
1. What did I do repeatedly? What could have been done once to prevent that?
Repetition isn’t always a sign of productivity—it can be a sign of inefficiency. As programmers, we follow the DRY (Don't Repeat Yourself) principle in our code, but do we apply it to our workflow?
Did you find yourself manually performing the same task multiple times? Automate it.
Were you answering the same questions over and over? Create documentation or templates.
Did you waste time setting up your work environment? Streamline your process with scripts or shortcuts.
Identifying repetitive tasks and finding ways to optimize them will free up time and mental energy for more meaningful work.
2. When did I "sin" (give in to a distracting habit)? What better could have fulfilled that need?
Distraction isn’t just about lack of discipline—it’s about unmet needs. Charles Duhigg, in The Power of Habit, explains that habits form because they satisfy cravings, whether for stimulation, relaxation, or social connection.
Did you scroll endlessly on social media? Maybe you needed a mental break—try a short walk instead.
Were you watching YouTube instead of coding? Perhaps you needed a structured learning break—watch something relevant.
Did you keep switching tasks? You might have been avoiding something difficult—break it down into smaller steps.
By identifying what you really needed in the moment, you can replace distractions with more effective habits that support your goals.
3. Did I beat my greatest rival (you yesterday)? Your biggest competition isn’t someone else—it’s the version of you from yesterday. Progress isn’t always dramatic; sometimes, it’s about small, consistent wins.
Did you write better code today than yesterday? Even a small refactor counts.
Did you spend less time distracted? A few extra minutes of focus is a win.
Did you learn something new? Growth, no matter how small, keeps you moving forward.
Rather than chasing perfection, focus on daily improvement. One step at a time, you’ll outpace the old you.
4. What slowed me down, and how can I remove that barrier?
Distractions, inefficiencies, and friction points in your workflow can quietly steal hours of your time. Identifying them is the first step to eliminating them.
- Did you spend too much time searching for files or fixing errors? Streamline your setup.
- Did notifications, social media, or emails pull you away? Set boundaries.
- Did unclear requirements or lack of focus lead to wasted effort? Plan better upfront.
Each day, remove one small obstacle, and over time, your workflow will become a well-oiled machine.
5. Did I use my energy wisely?
Productivity isn’t just about time management—it’s about energy management. Your brain isn’t a machine; it needs the right conditions to perform at its best.
- Did I schedule deep work for my peak energy hours?
- Did I take breaks to refresh my mind instead of pushing through exhaustion?
- Did I fuel myself with rest, food, and movement instead of burning out?
Work with your natural rhythms, not against them. When you use energy efficiently, you get more done in less time.
6. What do I need to reset to be ready to do it again?
Sustainable productivity isn’t about sprinting—it’s about pacing yourself. Ending each day with a reset ensures you start fresh tomorrow.
- What lingering tasks or thoughts need closure? Write them down.
- Does my workspace need tidying to prevent friction tomorrow?
- What mindset do I want to bring into the next day?
A reset doesn’t just prepare you for tomorrow; it tells your brain the workday is over, helping you switch off and recharge.
Wrapping Up
Productivity isn’t about squeezing more tasks into your day—it’s about making intentional choices that create flow, minimize distractions, and sustain your energy. By reflecting on these questions daily, you’ll build habits that make deep, meaningful work feel effortless. The goal isn’t just to work faster; it’s to work smarter, with purpose and balance.
What’s one small change you can make today to improve your focus and efficiency?