Work Distractions in Russia: How Digital Habits Shape Productivity
A recent survey reveals a striking pattern: 77% of Russians report that instant messaging and social networks are the main sources of workplace distraction. This finding comes from a study conducted by the HR Innovation Laboratory in partnership with the Health Academy platform for AlfaStrakhovanie’s Analytical Center, with results summarized by socialbites.ca.
Alongside this, more than half of respondents—54%—acknowledge occasional mindless scrolling that interrupts work during the day. The survey also shows that a large portion of time at work is consumed by non-work related content: 68% spend time on news and information feeds, while 62% frequently browse online stores, searching for products rather than fulfilling work duties.
The data break down further into activities beyond the core job. 28% are pursuing education, 11% hold part-time jobs, 25% watch films or videos and listen to music, 18% read books, 15% engage in online gaming, 10% solve crosswords, and 6% create drawings. These figures illustrate a broad spectrum of personal interests vying for attention during the workday.
From the same survey, 73% report regular tobacco use, and 68% answer personal calls during business hours. A smaller share—5%—report addressing personal concerns under the pretense of business travel, and 2% admit occasional naps at work, most often during lunch breaks. Office-based work accounts for 84% of responses, while the rest enjoy remote work or travel-based duties.
When asked which factors most affected work productivity, respondents highlighted excessive use of social networks as a primary issue. The key consequence is less time available to complete tasks. For many, social networks provide a temporary escape from routine, a chance to shift mental gears, and, for some, a way to counteract visual and mental fatigue. By adjusting work organization and rest periods, managers and employees can prevent processes from becoming overly mechanized and, as a result, improve overall productivity and job satisfaction.
As observed by Alisa Bezlyudova, director of the Marketing Department at AlfaStrakhovanie Pharmaceuticals, the findings point to actionable changes in work patterns. The emphasis is on balancing digital engagement with task focus, ensuring that technology supports productivity rather than eroding it.
In light of these insights, many workplaces are exploring strategies to reduce distractions, promote mindful device use, and design workdays that preserve cognitive resources for tasks that require sustained attention. This approach helps organizations maintain momentum, deliver results, and support employee well-being across diverse roles and environments.
Note: the report also addresses broader questions about how stress at work can be managed and how healthy routines contribute to long-term performance and resilience within modern corporate settings.