While you're working, you might have a lot of programs running on your computer at the same time.  Your Windows taskbar might be filled up from left to right.  But the problem is that your working area on your monitor becomes cluttered.  It takes longer to find the program you need because you'll have to look through dozens of running programs.

That can slow down your productivity.

When you're working, try to minimize the number of programs running at the same time.  If there are programs running that you don't need to use, close them.  For instance, if you have 5 web browsers open, but you're only using 2 of them, close the other 3 web browser windows.

Doing so will reduce the clutter on your monitor.  You'll be able to find programs in the taskbar faster.  And your computer will run faster too.

This applies to your Windows system tray as well (which is in the bottom-right corner of your screen).  If you have programs running in your system tray that you're not using, close them.  If they're set up to launch when your computer starts and you don't need to use those programs, set them up so they won't launch when your computer starts up.

Minimizing the number of programs running in your system tray will free up resources for your computer to use.  Your computer will run faster, boosting your productivity.

You can take it further and uninstall any programs you don't use.  The list of programs in your Start Menu will be shorter, making it easier and faster for you to find programs.