Final Thoughts: Distractions

You know that phone that’s an extension to your arm? Turn it off or at least turn it to silent.

‘Why is the phone such a distraction?’ you ask. ‘After all, it’s not ringing all the time.’ Firstly there is the psychological anticipation as you wait for a text or a call. This will always cause a minor distraction and mean that your mind is not fully on your work. Then the phone rings or the text comes through, and there you have it — complete distraction!

Think of the excitement when you can check it later for messages. In fact, why not send the messages before you sit down to work, put the phone away and you will almost definitely have a nice little envelope to open on the screen later!

Watch out for distractions! Notice when your mind is wandering and you’re doodling, making tea, talking with anyone around and generally acting like your chair is an ejector seat that throws you out every five minutes.