This sort of gain in productivity ultimately translates into increased economic activity, the ability to pay down debt and a higher standard of living for those of us who are employed.

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Some companies, such as New York-based tech advisory firm Basex and outplacement firm Challenger, Gray and Christmas have tried to quantify the productivity costs of employees distracted by online activity, such as fantasy sports.

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Reducing labour costs and boosting productivity is all the more important since Portugal is exposed to relatively low-tech areas of activity such as textiles that are vulnerable to competition from developing countries.

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While goals are not necessary for activity or even productivity, they provide us with a relative standard against which to measure the effectiveness of our efforts, aiding us in the elusive quest for fulfillment.

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