Turn Off Your Distractions
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Every Thursday, I share one action, habit, or project you may want to undertake in order to improve your health, happiness, and sense of well-being.
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PROJECT OF THE WEEK
Turn Off Your Distractions
Why is this so simple in concept and so challenging in everyday life?
When we focus on a single task, we know that we deliver better quality work in a shorter amount of time.
Yet, we continue to find ourselves attempting to work on a task that requires focus and concentration, while our email is open, our phone is out, and surrounded by reminders of other 'to-do' items.
We are NOT going to talk about how to focus better or longer. We are NOT going to brainstorm ways to overcome our environment.
Today, we ARE going to recognize that environment matters and we can create an environment that supports our goals and needs.
Getting Started
As a professional organizer, I have seen over and over again how having an organized and calm work area can make all the difference.
I bet you think I am going to recommend that you organize you workspace!
Nope - not today!
Today, I want you to consider what location is best for tasks that require thought and focus. Hint: It's likely not your regular work space.
I love my desk. And sometimes I work at the dinning room table, which feels large and open.
However, when it's time to sit down and write this blog, you will find me in an arm chair, next to the window in my bedroom. It helps me settle in, get started, and stay focused.
Think about what location is best for you and for which task.
If you work from home, is there a quiet calm nook? If you work in an office, is there a conference room you can reserve? Or do you have a favorite coffee shop where you focus best?
Once you’ve found your place, think about what other distractions get in your way. How can you change your environment to eliminate them?
I would consider closing out of email.
Would it be helpful to leave your phone in the other room?
Is the music you have on in the background helpful or distracting?
We would love to hear your ideas and solutions!
Cheers to a focused day!
Ready to Get Started?
If you feel excited about implementing this strategy and want some additional accountability and support to get started, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak was designed for you!
A Note from Happy Spaces
The goal is to add value to your life. If you think this project will add value:
Estimate how long you think it will take. I would recommend doubling the time you estimate.
Look at your calendar over the next week and pick a date and time to get started.
Make an appointment on your calendar for the estimated time.
If you estimate that completing this project will take longer than one hour, I recommend doing it over multiple days. This will support you in getting started!
Prior to starting this project, take a few minutes to make a step-by-step list of EVERY action you need to take to complete this project.
It's not all or nothing. You can choose to implement only the parts of this project that add value to your life.
An Accountability Partner can be a great support in following through on your goals and commitments.
We understand how challenging it can be to implement new habits and systems. For additional support please go to HappySpacesBySarah.com.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
Growing up as the oldest of nine siblings in Upstate New York, I learned to use organization to create sanity among the chaos. Today, I work together with individuals, families, and small businesses to create habits, systems, and spaces that support their needs, goals, and dreams. Clients often refer to our work together as "life-changing" and "better than decades of therapy". What I love most about my work is the lasting impact it has on real people's lives. Nothing makes me happier than hearing the many success stories of clients I have worked with.