Get rid of distractions, part 2

February 13, 2008

Yesterday I wrote about getting rid of distractions on your computer while doing important stuff.

There are also distracting factors in your surroundings, that you need to control. I am don’t have them all under control yet, but writing about them really helps to focus on what to do, while sharing it with others.

Common distractions

Loved ones - In my case, my wife. Yesterday, for instance, I explained to her what I was doing and how I can get benefits from it. That set the base for me now explaining to her that I sometimes need to concentrate, and that I will need to take the time to finish the current process. In this case, I will need to let her know in advance when I start and also let her know when I’m done.
The telephone - When you really need to concentrate, it’s good to turn off your mobile phone and the ringer of your land-line phone. If the call is really important, the caller will leave a voice mail message, which you can listen to and answer later.
Co-workers/friends - Same as loved ones. You can even put up “Do not disturb” signs and let them know in advance that it means that your are busy with something and cannot be distracted at the moment.
Things happening right outside your immediate space - A gardener mowing the lawn, a co-worker breaking a glass, a postman… there is a lot that fits in this group. One way I avoid being distracted by this group is to close the curtains in my office and put on some music. If you can’t do this, just use headphones.

Note: When ever you expect your loved ones to give you the space to concentrate, make sure you also spend enough quality time with them.

Not too much

Be careful close all doors to the outside world. You should always be on alert to respond to something extremely urgent. That’s why I don’t use headphones. If something happens to my wife, I should be aware of it. If something happens to my server, i need to know as soon as possible. If the neighbors house is on fire, I need to know to prepare evacuation. And so forth.