Stop the Merry-Go-Round, I Want to Get Off - Part 2

Did you know, according to Time Management Expert Dr. Don Wetmore, "The average person gets 1 interruption every 8 minutes, or approximately 7 an hour, or 50-60 per day. The average interruption takes 5 minutes, totaling about 4 hours or 50% of the average workday. 80% of those interruptions are typically rated as 'little value' or 'no value' creating approximately 3 hours of wasted time per day." No wonder we often feel like our day is spinning out-of-control. Today, concentrate on dealing with these distractions proactively. Handle the distractions, don't let them handle you.

In the first article of this 3-part series, we focused on living in Covey's Quadrant 2. If you are still struggling with that concept, take a few minutes to identify the activities that you performed over the last week that were in Quadrants 1, 3, and 4. Now, try to identify "why". What prevented you from being proactive? The more time you spend reflecting and problem solving, the easier it will be live in Quadrant 2.

However, sometimes it isn't the "big" stuff that throws us off track, but the "little" stuff. What sidetracks you during the day? Make a list. You don't have to be a professional organizer to get benefit from a list! Then decide when you are going to manage these interruptions. Often phone calls and emails can be a constant distraction. Choose when you want to respond to phone calls and emails and block time into your schedule instead of one-by-one when they come in. (Turn the automatic email notification OFF so you aren't tempted.) If dirty laundry, dishes, and other housework activities are distractions, block time into your schedule for housework, then forget about it. Chatty neighbors? Try, "I'd love to stay and chat, but I have an appointment scheduled." It is perfectly acceptable to make (and keep) appointments with yourself. Find yourself distracted by Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, etc.? Try plugging into social media a few times each day instead of viewing a constant stream all day.

When you are able to proactively handle your distractions instead of reacting to your environment, you can spend more time working in Quadrant 2 (Not Urgent and Important). Distractions come in all shapes and sizes. Five minutes here - and 5 minutes there really will add up. Diligently working to eliminate the big and small distractions will move you forward in your quest for a productive life and will help you manage the merry-go-round.

Lisa Crilley Mallis the owner of SystemSavvy Consulting and the creator of the College Success Initiative. She has assisted many students, solopreneurs, and busy moms, increase productivity and decrease clutter. Visit http://www.SystemSavvyConsulting.com for more helpful tips.