Are You Hopelessly Addicted To Distraction?

Here are some proven ways to stay focused

Times of stress can increase our susceptibility to distraction.

The digital nature of our work and lives has increased the availability of distractions.

Working from home during a pandemic has added additional distractions.

In can become an overwhelming mix of elements that keep us unfocused for much of our days. Finding ways to regain control of our focus is necessary.

Lesson to Learn

Our days can become filled with distractions and interruptions.

Focused work or effort is needed to make progress and accomplish outcomes.

Stress can lower our ability to resist distractions. In fact, we can begin to seek distractions so we do not feel the frustration, worry, anger, or sadness that this period of time brings with it.

Finding your focus usually involves a set of activities tailored to your needs and your life.

Given the unique nature of this time, learning what it takes to focus becomes paramount.

Answer for Me

I have noticed I get easily distracted these days.

Since I work remotely for much of my week now, I have discovered other distractions. Digital distractions are my most difficult challenges.

I receive countless attention grabbers all throughout my day.

When I was physically with people, it was easier to stay focused. I would not react to my phone during a conversation. I would not check email, texts, or developing news stories.

If I don’t catch myself, I can do all of these during a Zoom call.

I have needed to develop new ways and reinforce proven ways to stay focused on making progress and achieving outcomes.

Actions

It’s important to set priority tasks for the day and to schedule time to work on them without distractions.

During calls and video sessions, I must put away other devices that can be distracting.

Monitoring screen time is very helpful.

I’ve also found the importance of scheduling down time to rejuvenate. Stress and tiredness increase distraction levels.

Thinking time while walking or quiet time away from tasks can enhance creativity. Meditation or prayer can be excellent ways to downshift prior to deep work times.

Daily Habits

Recognize each day as a new beginning.

Set priorities and schedule productive, undistracted work time.

Take periodic breaks to refresh yourself. Spend some time before or after calls or video meetings just “hanging out” with colleagues.

Go for a walk and just think — or do nothing. Our brains need unoccupied time to be creative and rest.

Review your day for best practices that worked for you.

If you create ways to remain focused and refreshed, you will be more productive and happier.

This will show in your work and the way you treat others.

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.