How to Cut Out Distractions on Your Computer
People often think they can get right back on task after a distraction.
They’re wrong. On average, it takes us 23 minutes and 15 seconds to get back to the original task after we‘ve been interrupted.
That’s why the first step to focus better at work is to cut out as many distractions in your workday as possible.
Here are 4 ways to fight distractions on the computer:
Use Separate Desktop Spaces Use multiple desktops to keep tasks separated: one for communication windows and the other for the windows associated with different projects you plan to work on that day. Pro tip: add a different background to each desktop so you know exactly which task you‘re focusing on at any given time
Work Offline Whenever Possible A lot of work has to be done online, but whenever there is a task that doesn’t need the internet, make sure you disconnect. If there’s a task you already know doesn’t need the internet, turn it off before you start
Fight Apps with More Apps If you find yourself constantly distracted by apps and websites, you’re not alone. Luckily, there are a number of services out there that will block them for you. Freedom and Anti-Social are both great options for blocking distracting websites for preset periods of time
Schedule Your Email Time Email can either be the greatest asset or the biggest detriment to your productivity. In order to make sure it’s helping you, schedule specific blocks of time into your day to deal with it. Try picking only two times a day to check it. Dedicate a good 15-30 minutes to getting through all of your emails. Pick these two times right now and stick to them. Try not to constantly check your email today