"Unhelpful distraction" refers to something that takes away your focus or attention in a way that does not assist or support you in achieving your goals or solving a problem. Full definition
Cheatham also said that Gov. Scott Walker's recent call to repeal the Common Core State Standards in Wisconsin, and Republican legislators» efforts to do the same during the last legislative session, are unhelpful distractions for the district, which has emphasized implementation of the standards. (host.madison.com)
I keep hearing from myriad television and radio pundits that playing in a serious European competition — which is of far more worth than the domestic League Cup — is supposedly an unhelpful distraction at best and a «catastrophic burden» at worst. (worldsoccer.com)
Mr Rowley wrote: «I sincerely hold the view that you continuing as leader whilst not in the Scottish Parliament, and not in an elected position holding a democratic mandate, means you will become an unhelpful distraction from the real issues that Scottish Labour must focus on.» (bbc.com)