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#ProdChat – 02/15/2017 – How to Remove Distractions for Greater Productivity

#ProdChat – 02/15/2017 – How to Remove Distractions for Greater Productivity

On February 15, 2017, #ProdChat discussed the topic, How to Remove Distractions for Greater Productivity. Focus is one of our greatest assets in life and work; how do we manage this for our benefit, to ourselves and our loved ones? Watch the slideshow to see what the productivity enthusiasts on #ProdChat had to say about “How to Remove Distractions for Greater Productivity.” Enjoy!

Questions:

  1. How much time do you estimate distraction currently eats away from your productivity?
  2. What are some regular distractions you face, and how do you overcome them?
  3. How do you schedule your time so you can avoid distractions?
  4. How do you use self-tracking to reflect and limit future distractions? What tools do you use?
  5. Are there places you find yourself more, or less, distracted? How do you design your workspace to limit distraction?
  6. How do visual distractions affect your productivity? How do you combat it?
  7. How do deal with ambient noise and other sound-based distractions?
  8. Have you tried mindfulness exercises (such as meditation) to increase your focus? Experiences?
  9. What happens when other people (coworkers, family and children, etc.) are the distractions?
  10. What will you do in the next week to focus more to get more done?

Raw transcript:

User Tweet Time
rsidneysmith Welcome to #ProdChat, the weekly chat for productivity enthusiasts! https://t.co/C40vBakDrB https://t.co/zgmrnVvpGg Thu Feb 16 00:59:00 +0000 2017
DrFrankBuck Hello @rsidneysmith #prodchat Thu Feb 16 00:59:58 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith Today on #ProdChat we’re discussing “How to Remove Distractions for Greater #Productivity” Join us! https://t.co/Fzr2fGGXqm Thu Feb 16 01:00:00 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @DrFrankBuck Hey there, Frank! How’re you today? #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:00:25 +0000 2017
DrFrankBuck @rsidneysmith Doing well. Thanks. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:00:50 +0000 2017
OmnipoTony Finished today’s prodpod episode just in time #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:01:05 +0000 2017
DrFrankBuck Oh, that’s right. Ray, you are doing one per day for a while. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:01:30 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith So, let’s start! In a tweet, introduce yourself. #prodchatThu Feb 16 01:02:00 +0000 2017
JKatzaman Joining #ProdChat from Maryland, distracting myself to talk about removing distractions. Thu Feb 16 01:02:04 +0000 2017
ProSourcePrint I’m in! #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:02:08 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @DrFrankBuck That’s right! 30-day podcasting challenge for myself! It’s HARD! LOL #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:02:20 +0000 2017
harrisonia RT @rsidneysmith: Today on #ProdChat we’re discussing “How to Remove Distractions for Greater #Productivity” Join us! https://t.co/Fzr2fGGX… Thu Feb 16 01:02:24 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @JKatzaman G’day, Jim! How’re you today? #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:02:32 +0000 2017
DrFrankBuck Frank Buck from Alabama. I write and speak on organization and time management. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:02:39 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @OmnipoTony Hiya, Tony! Glad you are listening to #ProdPod! Another one drops tomorrow! 🙂 #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:02:55 +0000 2017
JKatzaman @rsidneysmith Doing good, Ray. And you? #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:03:06 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @ProSourcePrint Good day, Jeff! Glad you can be here! Great conversation methinks today! 😉 #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:03:19 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @JKatzaman I’m having one of those hyper(active)-productive days, so I’m doing great! LOL #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:03:38 +0000 2017
harrisonia Greets to all and good day! Sonia Harris tweeting from Northern Virginia (USA)!
#ProdChat
Thu Feb 16 01:03:44 +0000 2017
OmnipoTony @rsidneysmith perfect that the 100th episode was today. Looking forward to it. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:03:58 +0000 2017
xianfox Evernote and GTD enthusiast from WI. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:04:10 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith Intro: Hi, #productivity enthusiasts! Host: #prodchat, https://t.co/WPfpS6mNQq, @gtddc, @gtdnyc. Productivity, Tech & Management Consultant. Thu Feb 16 01:04:45 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith What’s a #productivity success you’ve had this or last week? #prodchat https://t.co/6FssOwNxci Thu Feb 16 01:05:00 +0000 2017
Aly_Flint UNT Advertising student joining #prodchat from Frisco, TX. Thu Feb 16 01:05:28 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @OmnipoTony Yes, I can’t believe it’s the 100th episode…and #/people who have listened to #ProdPod over the years is humbling. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:05:45 +0000 2017
DrFrankBuck #Productivity success is working on a book study people can do on my book to renew school admin certification in Alabama. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:06:00 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith Please add #prodchat to tweets. Questions will come as Q1, Q2, Q3. Answer A1, A2, A3, for readability! https://t.co/tRDrOIIIPG Thu Feb 16 01:06:01 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @Aly_Flint Welcome, Aly! First time on #prodchat? How’re you today? Thu Feb 16 01:06:36 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @harrisonia Good day, Sonia! Great to see you could make this #prodchat! :)) How’re you? Thu Feb 16 01:06:54 +0000 2017
xianfox It’s been a pretty quiet week for me. #ProdChat Lots of routine work; it’s been kind of nice to slow it down for a week. Thu Feb 16 01:07:31 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith We’ll be starting Q1 in just a couple minutes. #prodchat https://t.co/3hdYAbIYem Thu Feb 16 01:08:01 +0000 2017
OmnipoTony @rsidneysmith I can imagine. It’s a great milestone #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:08:08 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith #Productivity Success: Finished the syllabus for my upcoming Evernote for Business online course! w00t! #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:08:16 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @OmnipoTony Yes, and I’ll be shooting past 125 in just under a month’s time is also kinda mind-boggling for me. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:08:44 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @OmnipoTony But, I think the #productivity challenge was exactly the energy I needed to get back to podcasting #ProdPod again. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:09:19 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith Q1: How much time do you estimate distraction currently eats away from your productivity? #prodchat https://t.co/SXvz8zCBe5 Thu Feb 16 01:10:00 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @Aly_Flint Awesome! Well, welcome again, and enjoy the #prodchat! I’m sure you’ll learn and teach us a few things along the way! #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:11:00 +0000 2017
Aly_Flint @rsidneysmith This is my first #prodchat! As a student, I am continually looking for ways to increase my productivity. Thu Feb 16 01:11:15 +0000 2017
OmnipoTony @rsidneysmith for sure and excited to you go for 30 in 30 #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:11:30 +0000 2017
DrFrankBuck A1: It varies. When there is no deadline, the self-inflicted distractions kick in more. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:11:37 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @OmnipoTony Thank you! :)) #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:12:18 +0000 2017
JKatzaman Q1 Distractions eat away at my productivity as much as I let it. If determined to get something done, I can put other stuff aside. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:12:27 +0000 2017
OmnipoTony A1 hmm depends but I would say about 15 mins per hour. Can’t really calculate a number. #ProdChat https://t.co/4ePQvUwgcb Thu Feb 16 01:12:32 +0000 2017
MariahFerber I would estimate for every hour of homework I attempt to get done distraction eliminates at least 15 minutes of my productivity. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:12:35 +0000 2017
xianfox A1: Depends on whether we’re talking work or home. Work is better, 10-15%. Home…probably closer to 50%. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:12:48 +0000 2017
harrisonia @rsidneysmith Thanks Ray; doing ok. Glad to join in. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:12:49 +0000 2017
OmnipoTony @rsidneysmith you’re welcome. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:12:52 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith A1: I’m sure that ~10% of my time is probably distraction, from tracking my time. Always room for improvement. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:13:05 +0000 2017
harrisonia RT @rsidneysmith: Q1: How much time do you estimate distraction currently eats away from your productivity? #prodchat https://t.co/SXvz8zCB… Thu Feb 16 01:13:51 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @MariahFerber Welcome to #prodchat, Mariah! Thu Feb 16 01:14:21 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith Q2: What are some regular distractions you face, and how do you overcome them? #prodchat https://t.co/OkXpUwxHiD Thu Feb 16 01:15:01 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @xianfox Yeah, I think we definitely need to think in categorical terms if you’re more focused at work than home. Good point! #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:15:20 +0000 2017
OmnipoTony @MariahFerber sounds like we are in the same boat. #ProdChat https://t.co/8jRo45NKMK Thu Feb 16 01:15:55 +0000 2017
Aly_Flint A1: It depends on the task I am trying to accomplish and degree of motivation. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:15:58 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith A2: When I go to check work Facebook Groups, there’s that chance to accidentally see personal FB stuff. Ugggggh! LOL #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:15:58 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith A2: Twitter. Twitter. Twitter. (I have 13+ Twitter accounts for work and other organizations I help.) Such a rabbit hole! #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:16:31 +0000 2017
DrFrankBuck A2: External distractions for me tends to be phone calls, #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:16:42 +0000 2017
JKatzaman A2 The most common distractions are email, TV and making small talk. Any of the above can be turned off or avoided as need be. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:16:56 +0000 2017
harrisonia A1) Hmm, not sure. Radio & TV can be a distraction but I’ll adjust the noise level. I usually need some kind of noise in the bkgrd!#ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:17:07 +0000 2017
xianfox A2a: My biggest distractions at work occur when I’m at my desk. My goal is to be at my desk as little as possible. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:17:34 +0000 2017
xianfox A2a: My biggest distractions at work occur when I’m at my desk. My goal is to be at my desk as little as possible. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:17:34 +0000 2017
DrFrankBuck A2: Internal distrac. would be the interesting things I find online while I am researching the thing I originally needed to know #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:17:40 +0000 2017
harrisonia RT @rsidneysmith: Q2: What are some regular distractions you face, and how do you overcome them? #prodchat https://t.co/OkXpUwxHiD Thu Feb 16 01:17:50 +0000 2017
OmnipoTony A2 social media even though it’s part of work, articles that pop up that I want to read and YouTube opens a can of… https://t.co/4YI2WkTNCY Thu Feb 16 01:17:58 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith A2: Another that plagues many: small tasks that derail working on a larger project, because a small task leads to another, and on. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:17:59 +0000 2017
DrFrankBuck A2: During my days as a school principal, drop-in visitors posed the biggest distraction. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:18:19 +0000 2017
xianfox A2b: I make ‘me use voicemail/email as much as I can. I deal with that on my own schedule. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:18:26 +0000 2017
harrisonia A2) Regular distractions include my calendar alerts or reminders and social media notifications on devices. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:18:57 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @harrisonia I usu. get more done when the radio/music is on in the background, as long as it’s not too involved (ie, politics). #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:18:57 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @harrisonia But, I can totally see TV. I’d constantly be distracted if I had video playing. I sometimes will listen to YT videos. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:19:39 +0000 2017
xianfox @DrFrankBuck Amen to that. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:19:49 +0000 2017
harrisonia A2.2) I overcome those actions by turning the notifications off until I’m ready to “hear” them again. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:19:51 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith Q3: How do you schedule your time so you can avoid distractions? #prodchat https://t.co/PaUcPPh8hc Thu Feb 16 01:20:00 +0000 2017
harrisonia RT @Aly_Flint: A1: It depends on the task I am trying to accomplish and degree of motivation. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:20:13 +0000 2017
harrisonia @rsidneysmith Ouch! Really? #ProdChat https://t.co/p21XAZs0X6 Thu Feb 16 01:20:40 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @harrisonia I put my phone into Night/Sleep mode for periods of my day so those notifications go away for a temp. period. #idea #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:20:44 +0000 2017
Aly_Flint A2: My classes require me to stay current on news and social media, but this can be distracting from other tasks. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:20:58 +0000 2017
MariahFerber A2: My biggest distractions are ones I put in my own way such as texting and playing with my cat because I tend to procrastinate. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:21:00 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @harrisonia Ah, you’re on it! Hopefully that helps someone else! 🙂 #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:21:06 +0000 2017
DrFrankBuck A3: I plan my day the night before, and if I truly jump on my #1 first thing in the morning, I am usually OK. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:21:15 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @harrisonia Yes, I just have to block time out when I’m on Twitter and when I’m not. Period. Otherwise, I could spend all day. A3. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:21:45 +0000 2017
Aly_Flint A3: Checklists help me stay on top of everything – when I get distracted, I refer back to my list. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:23:15 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith A3: I use the Unschedule framework pretty effectively as part of my #GTD Weekly Review. See: https://t.co/QVt6W75xOU #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:23:19 +0000 2017
JKatzaman A3 Since I get to work earlier than most others, I try to get projects out of the way first thing. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:23:21 +0000 2017
xianfox A3: Biggest thing for me is to start early so my desk time occurs before everyone else is in for the day. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:23:37 +0000 2017
OmnipoTony A3 having a calendar, post it’s and having @trello & google drive open helps #Prodchat https://t.co/psEBGJZjww Thu Feb 16 01:23:41 +0000 2017
DrFrankBuck @Aly_Flint Great idea. Helps you re-focus. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:23:46 +0000 2017
Aly_Flint A3: I also take a moment each morning to mentally lay out what I need to accomplish by the end of the day. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:24:38 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith Q4: How do you use self-tracking to reflect and limit future distractions? What tools do you use? #prodchat https://t.co/yBXf9uuFWr Thu Feb 16 01:25:00 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @MariahFerber You should definitely check out the Unschedule by Dr. Neil Fiore. Great tool for procrastinating less. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:25:11 +0000 2017
harrisonia @rsidneysmith Oh yes, besides the weather report (which I’d be awaiting), the news IS more distracting. #ProdChat https://t.co/cqBYYBbppF Thu Feb 16 01:25:24 +0000 2017
DrFrankBuck i just use my digital task list to keep me focused. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:25:59 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @DrFrankBuck Great idea! I plan work for the next day usu. 6pm, and the rest of my personal parts of my next day before bed. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:26:19 +0000 2017
harrisonia RT @rsidneysmith: Q3: How do you schedule your time so you can avoid distractions? #prodchat https://t.co/PaUcPPh8hc Thu Feb 16 01:26:32 +0000 2017
harrisonia RT @rsidneysmith: Q4: How do you use self-tracking to reflect and limit future distractions? What tools do you use? #prodchat https://t.co/… Thu Feb 16 01:26:36 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @harrisonia Especially CSPAN when crazy callers get on the line! LOL. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:26:45 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @JKatzaman My favorite is when I get my task list done before anyone else shows up to the office! *high five* #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:27:13 +0000 2017
Aly_Flint Q4: Having a checklist gives me a tangible indicator of the degree of progress I have made towards my goals each day. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:27:23 +0000 2017
OmnipoTony @MariahFerber post it notes pretty much cover my screen. It’s my passive aggressive way of keeping myself on top of things. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:27:42 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith A4: I’m a huge self-tracker (Quantified Self, anyone?). I track all of my work hours daily using @toggl and my invoicing software. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:28:16 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith A4: Tracking all my time keeps me honest since I’m going to review the reports in my Weekly Review. #gtd #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:28:35 +0000 2017
MariahFerber I use a checklist for things I need to accomplish each day as well as a weekly checklist! #prodchat https://t.co/Ky4iZjGDKs Thu Feb 16 01:28:49 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith A4: For many years, I tracked all of this in an Excel workbook, that then became a Google Sheets workbook. But, @toggl now! #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:29:24 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @MariahFerber Do you do this in a software? Or a written on paper checklist? #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:29:50 +0000 2017
DrFrankBuck @MariahFerber and @Aly_Flint What do you use to keep your checklists? Any particular software? #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:29:58 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith Q5: Are there places you find yourself more, or less, distracted? How do you design your workspace to limit distrac… https://t.co/Y5Fp9m5M9J Thu Feb 16 01:30:02 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @Aly_Flint How do you track this checklist? Paper? Digital? #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:30:07 +0000 2017
prodchat RT @DrFrankBuck: @MariahFerber and @Aly_Flint What do you use to keep your checklists? Any particular software? #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:30:19 +0000 2017
DrFrankBuck Ray and I are thinking along the same line #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:30:30 +0000 2017
prodchat @DrFrankBuck @MariahFerber @Aly_Flint What Frank said! LOL #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:30:41 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith A5: I have to do “deep work” in my office with the door closed. Same with training/coaching calls with clients. I need quiet. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:31:23 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith A5: For all other work, I really enjoy being among people to work, even at a café or coworking space. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:31:47 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith A5: I have several computers and devices on stands surrounding me at my desktop (for testing purposes mostly), but also so… #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:32:34 +0000 2017
JKatzaman A5 I also can work with my door closed, but it’s not like distractions come to me. It’s usually the opposite. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:32:42 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith A5: …I can have different contexts (Work, Client Stuff, Personal, etc.). #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:32:57 +0000 2017
prodbookgrp Did you miss a #productivity book club discussion and want to listen to it? Catch up here: https://t.co/RzMPV84Dn2… https://t.co/3GE73IsGja Thu Feb 16 01:33:00 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith Did you miss a #productivity book club discussion and want to listen to it? Catch up here: https://t.co/yz1SnjAQm1… https://t.co/F7HkTZEyxW Thu Feb 16 01:33:00 +0000 2017
OmnipoTony A4 started using the 30/30 task manager app. Still pretty new and also learning how to use @todoist #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:33:12 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @MariahFerber Great! #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:33:22 +0000 2017
harrisonia A5) In my workspace, I enjoy my door! I do “need” to face the door, which I’ll adjust depending on traffic outside it. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:33:24 +0000 2017
xianfox A5: My software suite is cloud based so I can use any internet connected device. I prefer sunny locations to do my reporting. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:33:44 +0000 2017
OmnipoTony A5 for me as long as I have headphones and don’t have too many tabs open that helps. Also coffee is a huge plus.… https://t.co/wbeH5SkoY6 Thu Feb 16 01:34:23 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith Q6: How do visual distractions affect your productivity? How do you combat it? #prodchat https://t.co/JoVDXZCn09 Thu Feb 16 01:35:01 +0000 2017
xianfox @OmnipoTony I had those headphones back in the day. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:36:03 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @xianfox Ditto! #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:36:04 +0000 2017
DrFrankBuck A6: I try to avoid having anything that blinks near me when I work (voicemail, mobile phone) #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:36:22 +0000 2017
OmnipoTony @xianfox were those noise canceling? #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:37:16 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith A6: Unless it’s a video on screen, I’m not actually plagued by visual distractions. I can focus through many visual distractions. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:37:40 +0000 2017
xianfox @OmnipoTony Only if you turned the volume way, way up. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:38:01 +0000 2017
JoysOfMercy RT @rsidneysmith: Q6: How do visual distractions affect your productivity? How do you combat it? #prodchat https://t.co/JoVDXZCn09 Thu Feb 16 01:38:03 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @DrFrankBuck Although, I agree, Frank, I like to have all those notifications silenced when I’m doing “deep work.” #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:38:07 +0000 2017
JoysOfMercy A2 – Late to #prodchat – I have the Google Chrome Facebook Feed Eradicator. Keeps me from mindlessly scrolling TOO much @rsidneysmith Thu Feb 16 01:39:24 +0000 2017
OmnipoTony A6 staying away from YouTube helps. Once I start with one video it can lead to 20. Just speaking from experience… https://t.co/Pc43iABoG0 Thu Feb 16 01:39:26 +0000 2017
xianfox A6: I like to get away from things I have direct responsibility for. Away from my desk and in a coffee shop is great. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:39:32 +0000 2017
OmnipoTony @xianfox ah that makes sense. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:39:40 +0000 2017
harrisonia A5.2) “Studying” at the library was.not.productive: was too distracting b/c of people walking by & secluded areas were too quiet! #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:39:45 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @JoysOfMercy Welcome, Jennifer! Great to have you back! 🙂 #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:39:49 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith Q7: How do deal with ambient noise and other sound-based distractions? #prodchat https://t.co/QB8jNAEQxB Thu Feb 16 01:40:00 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @JoysOfMercy That’s amazing! I’ll definitely have to look at that Chrome extension! Thanks! :)) #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:40:14 +0000 2017
harrisonia @OmnipoTony Yes, same here! LOL #ProdChat https://t.co/R1sUKwgzUb Thu Feb 16 01:40:32 +0000 2017
DrFrankBuck A7: I am really good at tuning out background noise. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:40:46 +0000 2017
harrisonia RT @rsidneysmith: Q6: How do visual distractions affect your productivity? How do you combat it? #prodchat https://t.co/JoVDXZCn09 Thu Feb 16 01:40:58 +0000 2017
JKatzaman A6 There always seems to be a “squirrel” running around that’ll distract me if I let it. #prodchat https://t.co/rN3638kNKD Thu Feb 16 01:41:16 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith A7: Where visual distractions aren’t a big deal for me, I’m really tossed off by sound very easily. Light sleeper, too! #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:41:21 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith A7: I have to use noise-cancelling headphones when traveling because the noise is distressing. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:41:50 +0000 2017
JoysOfMercy @rsidneysmith – It shows quotes instead! #prodchat “The superior man is modest in his speech, but exceeds in his actions.”
~ Confucius
Thu Feb 16 01:42:00 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith A7: And, I frequently use ear plugs if I’m doing concentrated work in my office with the door closed. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:42:13 +0000 2017
xianfox A7: I’m pretty good at tuning noise out. If it gets too bad, I usually pick up and move somewhere quieter. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:42:18 +0000 2017
harrisonia A6) For visual distractions, it depends on the speed, noise level, and distance from me. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:42:19 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @JoysOfMercy Ha! That’s clever! #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:42:50 +0000 2017
harrisonia RT @rsidneysmith: Q7: How do deal with ambient noise and other sound-based distractions? #prodchat https://t.co/QB8jNAEQxB Thu Feb 16 01:43:00 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @JKatzaman I love that movie! Hehe. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:43:15 +0000 2017
JKatzaman A7 The passing crowd in the hallway isn’t that much of a crowd. Again, I can close the door, and the TV has mute and off settings. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:44:02 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith A7: Although, if I’m doing moderate to low challenge tasks at a café, or coworking space, noise isn’t an issue. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:44:08 +0000 2017
MariahFerber I am distracted more by visual distractions than noises. I usually set myself up facing a blank wall to minimize the distractions. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:44:22 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith A7: I also use @BrainfmApp extensively to help me focus! Such a great tool! #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:44:39 +0000 2017
JoysOfMercy A7 – A friend introduced me to Coffivity a while back. It’s coffee house noise. Supposed to help you think #prodchat https://t.co/8LvX4sFpsa Thu Feb 16 01:44:44 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith Q8: Have you tried mindfulness exercises (such as meditation) to increase your focus? Experiences? #prodchat https://t.co/BSAOrdl2ds Thu Feb 16 01:45:01 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @JoysOfMercy Yes, Coffitvity is a great app! #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:45:27 +0000 2017
harrisonia RT @rsidneysmith: A7: I also use @BrainfmApp extensively to help me focus! Such a great tool! #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:45:33 +0000 2017
prodbookgrp Join us for our next #Productivity Book Group live discussion! https://t.co/n14akGjZH4 #prodchat https://t.co/giMeFhyWGi Thu Feb 16 01:47:00 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith Join us for our next #Productivity Book Group live discussion! https://t.co/wQRfxIkzyT #prodchat https://t.co/VQvh4CRcZS Thu Feb 16 01:47:00 +0000 2017
harrisonia @rsidneysmith Yes, I LOVE getting work done at @panerabread and @Starbucks! Work followed by food reward (or meal)!… https://t.co/zsOnKAG6q9 Thu Feb 16 01:47:22 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith 18yrs. Mindfulness practice is to your brain as fitness, sleep, & good nutrition is to your body. #prodchat”}” data-sheets-numberformat=”[null,1]”>A8: I’ve been an advocate for >18yrs. Mindfulness practice is to your brain as fitness, sleep, & good nutrition is to your body. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:47:23 +0000 2017
MariahFerber I always feel ready to take on the world after a hot yoga session. It improves my focus, motivation, and mood! #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:47:42 +0000 2017
harrisonia RT @rsidneysmith: Q8: Have you tried mindfulness exercises (such as meditation) to increase your focus? Experiences? #prodchat https://t.co… Thu Feb 16 01:47:46 +0000 2017
OmnipoTony A8 I haven’t but I still have the @Headspace app #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:49:08 +0000 2017
JKatzaman A8 In a competing chat they’re talking about the difference between mindfulness and meditation. It boggles the mind. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:49:17 +0000 2017
xianfox A8: I try to keep prayer in my morning prep routine somewhere. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:49:30 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith A8: Secular and spiritual mindfulness practices exist, and for every type of mind. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:49:34 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith Q9: What happens when other people (coworkers, family and children, etc.) are the distractions? #prodchat https://t.co/zprvPv8D1Y Thu Feb 16 01:50:00 +0000 2017
JoysOfMercy A9 – I work from home. Yesterday evening, the girls were baking a cake. I was interrupted SO many times! I have no good answer #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:50:50 +0000 2017
DrFrankBuck A9: many times the best thing to do is give into the distraction. They need info to move forward. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:51:20 +0000 2017
JKatzaman A9 I’m lucky that most of the rest of the office keep to themselves. I’m the distraction culprit. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:51:45 +0000 2017
Vitto_Rio RT @rsidneysmith: Q8: Have you tried mindfulness exercises (such as meditation) to increase your focus? Experiences? #prodchat https://t.co… Thu Feb 16 01:51:49 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @JKatzaman Yes, meditation tends to be an umbrella term. I like mindfulness practice/exercise, as more secular terms. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:52:07 +0000 2017
xianfox A9: Family is my biggest “distraction” but they’re why I do all this in the 1st place, so I put them 1st but appropriately engaged #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:52:40 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @JoysOfMercy That just means you should have probably been having some fun with the girls! 😉 #TimeForFun #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:52:41 +0000 2017
OmnipoTony A9 put on the headphones. #prodchat https://t.co/MFjLOFnrVa Thu Feb 16 01:53:03 +0000 2017
JoysOfMercy @rsidneysmith They are high schoolers who know how to bake cakes and weren’t helping each other! lol #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:53:20 +0000 2017
Aly_Flint @DrFrankBuck @MariahFerber paper! I’ve tried phone and it’s more satisfying if I can physically cross it off! #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:53:40 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @JoysOfMercy LMAO! I remember when I had high schoolers doing the same thing at home. Good times. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:53:58 +0000 2017
JoysOfMercy @OmnipoTony Headphones at the office indicate that I’m REALLY working on something. Like editing podcasts! #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:54:08 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @Aly_Flint @DrFrankBuck @MariahFerber There is something satisfying about crossing things off a paper checklist, right?! #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:54:20 +0000 2017
OmnipoTony @JoysOfMercy ah in my scenario I’m listening to podcasts. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:54:37 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith Q10: What will you do in the next week to focus more to get more done? #prodchat https://t.co/RQP75bwr5S Thu Feb 16 01:55:00 +0000 2017
Vitto_Rio sometimes music is a great way to motivate for work! #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:55:18 +0000 2017
harrisonia RT @rsidneysmith: Q9: What happens when other people (coworkers, family and children, etc.) are the distractions? #prodchat https://t.co/zp… Thu Feb 16 01:55:41 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith A10: I’m going to check out this fancy Facebook Chrome extension recommended by @joysofmercy! #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:56:08 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith A10: I can see that extension being helpful for clients who don’t need @rescuetime or Freedom.io, and want something for just FB. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:57:00 +0000 2017
DrFrankBuck a10: Continue to construct the list ahead of time and make it attractive enough I will hit the ground running. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:57:01 +0000 2017
JKatzaman A10 I find giving myself artificial deadlines help get me to focus on what needs to be done. It’s my little mind game. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:57:10 +0000 2017
rogue_crayon99 A1 Overall, I would say around 15 to 20 percent of my waking hours. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:57:10 +0000 2017
JoysOfMercy A10 – Drink water when I get home from taking the girls to school. Help me be more alert right away. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:57:13 +0000 2017
OmnipoTony @rsidneysmith @JoysOfMercy extension you say? #prodchat https://t.co/sEZd8zk1YT Thu Feb 16 01:57:18 +0000 2017
harrisonia A9) Whether co-workers or family, communication “at their level” is the key to reducing or eliminating distractions! #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:57:19 +0000 2017
Vitto_Rio @rsidneysmith make a note of what I need to accomplish, that helps me focus #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:57:47 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith Next #ProdChat: February 22 – “Journaling for Productivity” with @nmhouston hosting! Join us! Have a great rest of… https://t.co/25uSpMnnMW Thu Feb 16 01:58:00 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @OmnipoTony @JoysOfMercy “News Feed Eradicator” for Chrome. #prodchat https://t.co/N5uBrSBooO Thu Feb 16 01:58:08 +0000 2017
JoysOfMercy @OmnipoTony @rsidneysmith – It’s called Facebook News Feed Eradicator #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:58:15 +0000 2017
rogue_crayon99 A2 Social media is a huge distraction but at the same time—and it’s very hard to say this—a necessary one. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:58:17 +0000 2017
OmnipoTony A10 eliminating distractions until everything that I need gets done first. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:58:20 +0000 2017
OmnipoTony @JoysOfMercy @rsidneysmith now that sounds like something I need. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:58:47 +0000 2017
JoysOfMercy @OmnipoTony @rsidneysmith – When you log on to FB, you see a lovely quote instead of your feed. Notifications are there. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 01:59:07 +0000 2017
OmnipoTony @JoysOfMercy @rsidneysmith hmm that’s exciting #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:59:26 +0000 2017
harrisonia RT @rsidneysmith: Next #ProdChat: February 22 – “Journaling for Productivity” with @nmhouston hosting! Join us! Have a great rest of your w… Thu Feb 16 01:59:31 +0000 2017
xianfox Journaling. I need lots of help there. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 01:59:36 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @xianfox I’m sure the #productivity enthusiasts and @nmhouston will have many insights for you! 🙂 #prodchat Thu Feb 16 02:00:10 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith Thanks, #productivity enthusiasts, for attending #prodchat! Join the @prodchat community, and @nmhouston, next week! https://t.co/0O5h8KGhyN Thu Feb 16 02:01:00 +0000 2017
xianfox @rsidneysmith Looking forward to it. #ProdChat I’m pretty much the anti-journaler. Thu Feb 16 02:01:58 +0000 2017
Aly_Flint @rsidneysmith @DrFrankBuck @MariahFerber It’s like crossing a mini finish line after completing a task #prodchat Thu Feb 16 02:02:04 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @Aly_Flint @DrFrankBuck @MariahFerber Ha! Yes! I like that analogy! #prodchat Thu Feb 16 02:02:25 +0000 2017
rogue_crayon99 A4 I used site-blocking apps a few years ago and occasionally put my phone away to focus on tasks at hand. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 02:02:33 +0000 2017
xianfox @rsidneysmith You need to update that graphic, Ray. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 02:02:35 +0000 2017
JoysOfMercy @rogue_crayon99 – Putting my phone in the other room helps A LOT! Then I don’t hear all of the dings and buzzes. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 02:03:43 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @xianfox Ah, yes. Thanks for catching that! I’ll correct it now. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 02:03:47 +0000 2017
rsidneysmith @prodchat @nmhouston CORRECTION: Topic for next week is “Journaling for Productivity” (Thanks, @xianfox for catchin… https://t.co/1OhSGKRlHk Thu Feb 16 02:05:32 +0000 2017
rogue_crayon99 A6 interesting side talk related to this: open floor plans vs cubicles. The latter’s “horse on blinders” works better for others #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 02:06:19 +0000 2017
xianfox Thanks for the chat #ProdChat. Have a wonderful evening all. Thu Feb 16 02:07:14 +0000 2017
rogue_crayon99 A7 I spent most of my early life in urban areas so in a way, I do prefer ambient noise. Total silence can be a little unnerving. #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 02:08:57 +0000 2017
MarcieTimmerman A9 I periodically log what I accomplish in an hour, a day, etc. My “done” list helps me stay on track. #prodchat Thu Feb 16 02:12:28 +0000 2017
rogue_crayon99 A9 Family/friends/coworkers = always tough. I try my best to stay engaged while talking with them but have a clock ticking… #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 02:13:36 +0000 2017
rogue_crayon99 @JoysOfMercy Nice! Part of me is still tempted to purchase a discrete lockbox just to make sure it’s out of sight and mind! #ProdChat Thu Feb 16 02:14:54 +0000 2017
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