Interruptions are not the only things keeping you from completing your work. There are several different distractions that can keep us from work, but there are two main categories. In this blog, we will be talking about distractions from things you are thinking about.
Self-Mastery of Your Schedule Step 6 of 11: Eliminate Thought Distractions
WHAT IS A THOUGHT DISTRACTION?
For example, a news story you heard that stays on your mind. It becomes a distraction when it is all you can think about while you are working. What about a circumstance happening with your family? While these are important to think and care about, it can distract you from getting your work done.
Even though some thoughts are partial distractions, each distraction takes you away from what you were working on — similar to multitasking described in our second self-mastery blog. Trying to pick up where you left off, along with realigning your thinking, will take time away from your work.
THE SOLUTION: YOURSELF
How can you keep yourself from getting distracted by your thoughts?
Before you start your work, take some time to organize your thoughts into a funnel. This strategy comes from the book, Procrastinate on Purpose: 5 Permissions to Multiply Your Time by Rory Vaden. In this funnel, organize your thoughts with these simple questions:
Can I eliminate it?
Can I automate it?
Can I delegate it?
Do I have any control over it?
Organizing your thoughts is difficult, but it’s necessary to accomplish your work on time. Those tasks you can automate or delegate, be sure to do that before you start working. Those things you don’t have any control over are the things you must eliminate to be able to be your best self to others in your organization. Give yourself permission to let go of things you can’t control. You will thank yourself for doing this quick exercise.
Want to learn more about how you can get the most out of your day? Stay tuned for more self-mastery blogs, or contact us to schedule a meeting with our coaches. Check out Roy Vaden’s book on Amazon or his website, where he also posted his TedTalk.