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Human Distractions

You can eliminate all sort of distractions around you… but if you don’t also eliminate the human distractions, you’re not going to get much done.

If you’re working at home, your roommates, spouse and/or children will keep popping in to chat if you let them. At work, your colleagues will stop by with questions, feedback or just to talk about last night’s ending on their favorite reality TV show. And even in public (like sitting at a Starbucks) you can’t get away from people who want to use up some of your precious time with trivial matters.

So here’s what you need to do:

Let everyone around you know that you need
an uninterrupted period of time to get your work done.

Here are tips to help you communicate your needs at home, at work and in public:

⇒ If you’re in public, use “don’t bother me” body language and other cues. Don’t make eye contact with others. Put your hand to your head to indicate you’re concentrating. Put headphones on (even if you don’t have music playing) as a way to show people you’re not interested in talking.

If someone does initiate conversation, politely but firmly let them know that you’re on a deadline and must finish your task.

⇒ When you’re at home, let your household members know you need some uninterrupted time. If you have children, ask your partner (or even a friend or neighbor) to watch the children while you enjoy uninterrupted time (and then offer the same in return). Shut the door and hang a sign on it, if necessary.

⇒ When you’re at work, shut your door whenever possible. If that’s not possible, then use the “don’t bother me” body language and other cues.

Tags: Time Management

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