How I Can Watch TV and Still Be Productive

I'll be the first to admit, it's not always easy to work in front of the boob tube. It's probably one of the worst places to work when you're attempting to avoid distraction, but no matter how hard we might try, we often end up plopping down in front of the television when we should be more focused upon doing some work.

This can be an especially destructive habit for those of us who work from home. And while I try to keep the temptation away, there are times when I find that I can do things in front of the television and still be relatively productive.

Checking Email and Accounts

Whether I'm zoning out in front of the television or just want some background company by way of the ol' picture box, I find it a great time to check email and various accounts. These are tasks that require some semblance of awareness but not so much that I can't have a good program going at the same time. Unless it's an email of particular high importance to which I'm responding, I don't find typing out a message, or reading or sorting through my inbox too difficult to handle with the distraction of the television present.

Researching

I find that while I'm lounging in front of the television, doing a little research can keep me productive, but not interfere with my program watching or vice versa. This isn't in-depth stuff mind you, where I'm really having to apply my thoughts to what I'm reading, but rather scouring the Internet for ideas and information, or browsing through articles (both online and in print). I guess you'd call it a bit of brainstorming while relaxing. Sometimes the shows that I'm watching even provide me with new ideas for my work.

Outlining and Listing

For many jobs, outlining, listing and general planning ahead can be key to staying on track and continue success. I find that doing such activities -- at least for me -- doesn't require complete attention, can often be a nice break from my regular work, and can be done in front of the television without much distraction. Planning out my day or week, making grocery or to-do lists or even general outlining of project or article ideas aren't a stretch while still relaxing my mind in front of my favorite programs.

Mail and Bill Pay

Many people like to avoid going through their mail and/or paying their bills. This isn't always due to avoidance of their financial responsibilities, but because it's just a pain. While I actually enjoy going through my mail, and like to get bills paid and out of the way, this doesn't necessarily mean that I like spending my best working hours doing it. Therefore, I sometimes try to pair these activities with my television watching hours in order to get them out of the way while still enjoying myself in front of the tv.

And while I know there are many work activities and responsibilities that shouldn't be done while watching the tube, it can be nice to get certain tasks accomplished while watching your shows, and sometimes doing so can even make such duties more enjoyable and actually have you looking forward to your multitasking.

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Disclaimer:

The author is not a licensed financial professional. The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Any action taken by the reader due to the information provided in this article is solely at the reader's discretion.