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6 Simple Ways to Reduce

Interruptions

by Maria Gracia Join our newsletter to be notified when the newest Organizing Article is available. Interruptions soak up time like a sponge. Here are six simple ways to limit interruptions so you can accomplish what you set out to do each day. 1. Make note of common distractions. You can’t really fix interruptions until you clearly know what they are, how often they’re happening, and how much of your time they are taking up. Every time you’re working on something and you get interrupted, note the date, the interruption type, and how long it takes for you to handle that interruption before you can get back on track (e.g. kids asking questions, social media notifications, phone calls, email, unexpected visitors, etc.) 2. Adjust your schedule. In most of our days, there are time ranges when we’re least likely to get interrupted, like before the kids wake up or times at work when most people are on lunch break. Use these time ranges to get your more focused projects done. 3. Set boundaries. Schedule certain periods during the day when you're available for questions, feedback, etc. and conserve other periods for your own purposes. During the time slot when you're not available, hang a Do Not Disturb sign, along with the times that you are available. This works well in the office and can work well at home too. Even if you have kids, it’s important that they understand that you need focused time now and again; this is a good time to set them up with an art project or craft. If they’re really young, have your better half or a friend watch them. 4. Screen your calls. While you're working on an important project, have your voicemail, or an office assistant, take your phone calls. You'll be able to work on your project and then return calls at a later time when it's more convenient. 5. Set your phone on “Do Not Disturb” mode. Don’t worry. You’ll  continue to receive calls, text messages, and other notifications, but your phone will not be constantly ringing or vibrating in response to those calls and notifications. Place your phone face down so the “visual notifications” on your home screen don’t become distracting. 6. Write up instructions. Family at home and staff at work may interrupt you when they have questions or don't know how to do something. Whenever you can, put answers to common questions and instructions in writing. Give these instructions to the appropriate people (or post them prominently) so they can look up answers, rather than disturbing you for every little thing. Back to Organizing Articles Index