What is one example of an external time steward that can affect productivity?

An external time steward that can affect productivity is unwanted mail. This encompasses various forms of unsolicited communication, such as junk mail, spam emails, or unnecessary notifications that can disrupt focus and consume time. When individuals receive unwanted mail, it diverts their attention from more meaningful tasks and can create a sense of overwhelm, leading to decreased productivity. By being inundated with irrelevant information, individuals may find it difficult to prioritize important activities or maintain a productive workflow. Managing or filtering out unwanted correspondence can help maintain a clearer focus on critical tasks and enhance overall efficiency.

In contrast, the other options presented stem from internal factors or personal management issues rather than external influences. Overcommitment and poor planning are related to how individuals manage their own responsibilities and priorities, while procrastination reflects an internal struggle with time management and motivation.