In our last blog, we turned the idea of interruptions on its head. In this blog, we’ll look at ways in which you can learn to manage interruptions and how to maximize your time, which is what you have come to expect in reading this.
Hands down, the most common interruption is our phone. Not phone calls. That was so 1995. Who calls anymore, anyhow? It’s texts, notifications, banners. Yup. And when the phone is not interrupting us, we are interrupting ourselves.
“Compulsive use of mobile phones and computers is an addiction, similar to sex, drugs, and alcohol.”
John Ratey, Clinical Psychologist, Harvard University
Some people are “ok with their addictions.” It’s acceptance, which is really powerful. How are you doing with your phone addiction? No, really? Try no phone for a day. They have a name for this. It’s Nomophobia. Try it. At first you will have jitters. At some point you will calm down. Later, you will not only be productive, but peaceful.
Try it. 8 hours. Let me know how you do in the comments.
And here it is…how to maximize your time and minimize your interruptions:
- Be flexible
Firstly, accept that distractions happen to us all. Period. Realize and accept that interruptions are going to happen and, instead of stressing about them, be flexible. Where possible, plan for interruptions, delegate where possible and stay in control of the situation!
- Be vocal
When you see a distraction coming your way, try and communicate and head it off at the pass. It’s fine to tell colleagues that you’re up to your ears in work and can they come back later? Remember, clear is kind. Communicate your schedule to others so they know when you are likely to be tied up with your to-dos. Let people know when you are going to be off-limits.
- Be direct
When hit with a distraction, try and get to the heart of it immediately. That way you have time to formulate how best to attack before you get drawn in.
As annoying as they might be, we’ve seen how interruptions are a part of life and it’s more about how we deal with them that makes the difference. But, believe it or not, there are some positives to come out of any disruptions that come your way. Have you considered that the period of interruption can give you valuable breathing space or thinking time? Sometimes, when interrupted from a task, we return with a clearer head, or slightly different perspective. Those precious minutes have given us an excuse to slow down and reconsider our stance. Although interruptions from colleagues can be a chore, maybe this is an opportunity to brainstorm, or to gain their perspective on that problem you’ve been wrestling with?
What if, instead of viewing an interruption as a curse, we welcomed them? If managed correctly, they can increase productivity, and allow us to stay connected, but on our own terms.
Now, wouldn’t that be a thing?