{"id":38769,"date":"2016-02-09T14:16:59","date_gmt":"2016-02-09T22:16:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pickthebrain.com\/?p=38769"},"modified":"2016-02-11T20:29:54","modified_gmt":"2016-02-12T04:29:54","slug":"6-tips-reduce-distractions","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pickthebrain.com\/blog\/6-tips-reduce-distractions\/","title":{"rendered":"6 Tips To Reduce Distractions"},"content":{"rendered":"
<\/div>

Work these days is no longer limited at the office. More and more people are choosing home-based jobs that pay just as well, if not more. As the labor force transforms, the type of distractions we face also change in nature. Aside from the usual office gossip or chatter, today, our attentions are also challenged by the Web, social media, and mobile apps.<\/p>\n

However, these \u201cdistractions\u201d are sometimes necessary to complete our tasks (like Tweeting to promote a book<\/em>) or promote healthy relationships. So what do you do when you have a deadline in three hours plus a mountain of emails to check? If you can\u2019t plan ahead, try these six tips to boost productivity<\/a> without scrimping out on a little bit of good fun.<\/p>\n

1. Schedule Small Tasks for Last<\/h2>\n

This is one of my favorite pieces of advice, which has also saved me plenty of time and headaches. Simply put: no matter how big your To-Do list is for that day, eat your live frogs first<\/strong>. This technique was taken from Mark Twain\u2019s quote, which means you need to finish your biggest tasks first so that you can go through the day knowing that the worst is over.<\/p>\n

For instance: if you need a report done by 3PM but you also need to reply to emails, obviously, your frog is the report. Put the emails last as that can be more time-consuming. CEO and success coach Brian Tracy suggests<\/a> doing your ugliest, most challenging tasks first, if you had to choose between two frogs.<\/p>\n

2. Use Tools<\/h2>\n

Take advantage of modern technology. Ask yourself: what\u2019s the best way to help you concentrate? A Post-It note? An online timer? A mobile planner? Choose something that works for you and that you\u2019re comfortable using everyday. I personally subscribe to both traditional (a customized planner<\/em>) and modern (an online app<\/em>) ways to make sure I remove unnecessary distractions during work.<\/p>\n

I love using Toggl<\/a> to help me stay on track of my daily activities, while Redbooth<\/a> allows me to stay in touch with colleagues no matter how many projects we tackle. Use tools in conjunction with tip #1 for a great increase in efficiency!<\/strong><\/p>\n

3. Talk To Distracters<\/h2>\n

A little office chatter is fine. In fact, it\u2019s one of the best ways to avoid feeling isolated at work and to connect with your team. However, there are just times when the last thing you need is noise. If you work in open office settings, it can be difficult to avoid this type of distraction.<\/p>\n

What I like to do \u2013 because we use tools like Skype \u2013 is to change my status to \u201cBusy\u201d to indirectly say that I need to be left alone, but I\u2019m still available in case they need help. If noise really bothers your productivity though, talk to your team or supervisor about it.<\/strong><\/p>\n

For individuals who work from home, distracters can come in the form of house calls from friends or neighbors. Don\u2019t be afraid to politely reschedule. Be honest and tell them that you need to finish a project, BUT would love to have lunch or dinner as soon as you\u2019re available.<\/p>\n

*Important note: children should NOT be treated as distracters. If your kids, grandkids, nieces, or nephews ask for some time, give them your full attention \u2013 or none at all<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n

4. Use Headphones<\/h2>\n

Colleagues not getting the hint?<\/p>\n

Make sure to pack your headphones with you so you can drown out needless noise<\/strong>. Just be sure to check if your office permits use of it during working hours. If you prefer ear plugs to completely get away from chatter, just be cautious because you may not hear people calling for you. Fill up your music player with your favorite tunes, or maybe relaxing melodies like the sound of rushing waves.<\/p>\n

5. Keep Your Desk Clear<\/h2>\n

Sure, a tiny plush toy or small picture frame is okay to personalize your working space. But there\u2019s such a thing as too much of a good thing. Be honest: is your desk littered?<\/em> Although people may argue that a messy desk is a sign of a creative mind, it just shows unprofessionalism at the office. If you work from home, a cluttered desk wastes your time by having you sort through piles when searching for stuff.<\/p>\n

Ensure that important information is safe<\/strong> \u2013 and away from prying eyes \u2013 by keeping a clean work area<\/a>. Take home books and magazines. Eat away from your desk. Compile papers in binders or folders. Tuck away items in your drawer. The cleaner your table is, the better you\u2019ll feel about finishing your tasks.<\/p>\n

6. Move Away<\/h2>\n

Sometimes, no matter what you do, distractions still follow. There are just noises you can\u2019t drown out or people who are difficult to talk to. In such situations, perhaps your best recourse is to move away from the distraction<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

For people who work in open office settings, here are a few suggestions:<\/p>\n