How to Manage Distractions
By MK Emerson
Distractions can be enjoyable, and I'm not here to tell you to avoid every thing that brings you joy. I’ve spent so many years thinking all distractions were no good.
Like with food, I’ve recently learned to stop demonizing things as either bad or evil. Distractions can be kind of fun and you know what, a sign from the universe to stop what you’re doing and chill for a second. (Like when my cat wants to play laser and sits on my keyboard to notify me, “Girl, you done working.”)
However, with that, some distractions can lead to discomfort and a loss of focus, especially when they pile up. Not all are fun. Most are annoying. Get your power back!
Managing Notifications and Screen Time
Consider how many notifications you receive daily. These constant interruptions can be overwhelming.
Here's a tip: keep your ringer on and check your apps intuitively when needed. Have you tried using Do Not Disturb (DND) mode on your phone? It's a great way to manage interruptions by allowing only important calls or texts to come through, leaving others for later.
For instance, Mom, spouses, partners, clients. And don’t forget Mom.
Social Media and Email Habits
Social media can be a major time sink. For instance, I reduced my time on reels from four hours a week to just thirty minutes. Don’t judge.
It brought me toward something cool that can happen to you: with more time you end up filling it with hobbies or other interests. Then those interests take over and suddenly social media scrolling turns into maybe 30 minutes per month! It happened to me.
How often do you check your email? Limit it to twice a day—once in the morning and once before finishing work.
TRUST me on this one! It’s been the greatest life hack. No one needs you to respond that urgently and if so, they’ll call you. Okay?
Group chats can also be overwhelming if you feel the need to respond to everyone. Assess if this habit is serving you well. Don’t respond right away or text once if you’re busy.
Side Note: The People Pleaser
I learned I had this deep rooted condition that caused me to feel guilt for not responding to everyone all of the time. I’m still working on that, but I needed to learn that no, there’s no one truly panicking if I don’t get to them that second. And no, no one is losing sleep over this. Just me. Is that like you? Please share in the comments below if you relate to this or how you handle group messages.
Tackling Ruminating Thoughts
Do you often find yourself caught up in ruminating thoughts like, "What did they mean by that?" or "I haven't talked to so-and-so, they must think I'm awful!" When this happens, stop and journal your thoughts. It can help clear your mind and refocus your energy.
I’m serious. Journal, like yesterday. Ruminating thoughts should be first on the list. They are so distracting and time consuming, like energy vampires that just suck and suck and suck at your high!
Staying Updated with News
Staying informed is important, but it can also be distracting. Choose news platforms that provide factual information without fear-mongering. Pay attention to how you feel after reading the news. If it leaves you anxious, consider adding filters or saving articles for later.
I’m all for keeping up, but you do know the news is still a business, right? They need to make money. Scare tactics win far more often than not. Beware of clickbait.
And here’s a tip: If it’s THAT urgent, you’ll hear about it.
Personal Distractions
Each person has unique distractions. For example, I find that TV shows and movies playing in the background help me focus, while for others, they might be a source of tension or cause them to slack. I’m a sucker for scary movies but that’s not the genre that helps me focus so I save it for downtime. There’s nothing like people screaming in the background to detour your attention!
If a distraction doesn't make you feel good, it's time to cut back. Not completely removed, but you know, simmer down a bit.
In Summary:
Check your screen time: Assess if it aligns with your goals.
Monitor your texts: It's okay not to respond immediately.
Prioritize yourself: Allow the world to continue while you take time for yourself and your goals. You don’t always have to be on.
Remember, only you know what's truly distracting you. By managing these distractions effectively, you can enhance your productivity and focus.
Please share your story about distractions in the comments or tell me personally on the Contact page.
MK
This blog was written to inform readers of tips to manage distractions. It is not to be consider as professional advice, it is merely an opinion practiced by the author. Take what you want from it and grow, or toss it away and move forward. We’re here for fun!