I made my “To Do List” (for today) last night. The list was clear and prioritized. When I woke up this morning, I promised myself that I will “somehow” complete the “MUST DOs”. It’s almost dinner time… I can’t believe I have only finished one task.How many times have you awoken in the morning, resolved to put in a full day of work, and then marveled at how little work actually got done? (If you're like me, the answer is "too many times!")
Looking back at my day, I realize that motivation or the “To Do” List itself was not the problem. As much as I hate to admit it, distractions/interruptions were the main contributory factor.
Avoidable distractions Vs “Allowable” distractions
We get distractions because we allow ourselves to be distracted. Surely, there is a clear distinction between distractions that are unavoidable and those we should allow. A sick child, a crisis situation at work etc. are distraction that we should allow. More often than not, it’s not these types of distraction that eat off time!This post is a recap of the most common “avoidable” distractions we face in our day to day life.
1. Physical distractions
Feeling HungryThis is the most common distraction for me! Often, when I am in the middle of a task I feel like “I need to have something to eat”! This results in poor concentration as well.
So I make it a point to grab something before I engage in a task. As a precautionary measure I keep some snacks on my desk. The same could be said about keeping yourself hydrated. Instead of going to the water cooler with your glass every hour, try filling up a water bottle at the start of the day.
Feeling Sleepy
It is hard to focus when you are sleepy or stressful due to lack of sleep. It is recommended that you sleep for 6-8 daily. However, occasionally there might be days where where sleep becomes a luxury. If so, you might find 7 Ways To Revive Your Tired Body And Stay Energized After A Sleep Deprived Night useful.
Not well
If you are sick, you should get some rest and seek necessary medical assistance.
2. Mental distractions
Your own mind distracting you!., another “popular” time drainer.You remember something that you were “supposed” to do.
Write it down and ignore it for now.
Boring Task
When you’re doing something you enjoy, time goes by quickly and you get it done. When faced with a boring task, there are ways to make those tasks bearable and a little more interesting.
You are caught in an emotionally draining dilemma, fueled by worry and fear.
I have been in this situation many times and I can tell you that there is no “quick fix” for this one!
Getting through these types of distractions require some “action” on our part, to “tackle” the dilemma.
3. Environmental distractions
Family interruptionsIf you are working on something from home, this is very likely to happen. For various reasons, a family member may approach you when you are engaged in some work. I generally feel bad to tell them “go away”, so I am a victim of these interruptions regularly.
I have found that telling them, “Please don’t disturb me until ..” works. (to a certain extent!) I also try to schedule my work around the “family itinerary”, so I am interrupted less. The other option is to leave the house (don’t know how practical it is though)!.
The price of staying “connected”
Telephone, email, AIM, twitter, facebook etc …This one is arguable. I know that some people manage to work around these, while others find this to be a major distraction. I fall into the later. I do my best to get “offline” when I want to concentrate fully. (Yes, as I write this post I am offline!)
“Workspace” distractions
Do you sit close to a window with a “nice” view of the “outside” world? How is the desk organized? Do you have sufficient space?
Surrounded too much noise? Consider listening to your iPod or any other music player. (Some people would find music distracting as well!)
Chances are, you're your own worst enemy when it comes to distraction. What steps do you normally take to minimize distractions and stay focused?
