Are You Able To Pay Attention?

In The Distraction Economy, We Can Lose Our Focus

We live in the distraction economy. Constant messaging, push notifications, and web surfing can occupy a lot of our time. Much of the information we consume and share is done through our highly connected devices that only grow in their availability and daily uses.

The smartphones we carry are most often used as information sharing devices, not for phone calls. If we want to accomplish meaningful outcomes, we need to re-learn to focus. The ability to do deep work has gained popularity as a required skill.

Lesson to Learn

Stealing our attention is the desired outcome of much of our connected devices and their software offerings. Maintaining focus on our essential tasks is critical.

To get meaningful work done, we must develop effective personal strategies to avoid distraction, spend time on what matters, and deliver outcomes.

Periods of deep work and concentrated attention requires effective strategies and tactics. For instance, various studies have shown that distracted office workers average up to 25 minutes to return to work once they were interrupted.

Answer for Me

I pride myself on being available and connected in a variety of digital ways. However, this connectivity can take a toll on my productivity. Focused work is harder and harder to accomplish.

I find the need to disconnect during the day to get my job done.

The devices on which I work make it hard to do this, given the frequent distractions they present.

I am working on methods that can help me avoid the constant reminders and distractions. Periods where I am away from my devices and ignoring notifications, are two that have provided some relief. I am also experimenting with device settings and ways of working that are not connected to the constant barrage of notifications.

When I am away from these distractions, my work quality goes up, I focus more, and I am more satisfied with my use of time.

Action

Develop productive ways for you to thrive in our distraction economy.

You will need to create your ways of staying focused to do your best work.

Focus and high-quality work have been proven to go hand-in-hand. Learn from others and the increasing amount of research and attention on subjects like deep work. The number of distractions and connected devices are only going to increase.

Work to find your strategy and tactics now that will give you the best opportunity to succeed.

Daily Habits

Find ways to start your day without jumping on your devices and into the world of digital distraction. Early morning, before you begin your day, can be an excellent time for focused efforts.

Implement methods to focus on your most important projects and work.

Experiment with ways to do this well. Keep track of how well your strategies are working.

Celebrate even small wins where you can achieve increased focus and reduced distractions.

To learn more about leadership, visit me at www.macny.org.

To get a copy of my book Present-Future Leader, go to www.amazon.com.