Make Better Use Of Time By Reducing Interruptions

One great source of stress is the perception of insufficient time to accomplish necessary tasks.

When attempting to manage one’s time more effectively and efficiently, interruptions should be considered as an area for potential improvement.

The following techniques may be used to reduce wasted time resulting from unnecessary interruptions:

In some cases, removing yourself from the source of distraction is necessary. One way to do this is to isolate yourself by getting out of the office.

Some options for where to go: Go to the public library reading room where you can study. Park your car in a safe place and proceed to concentrate there.

If the completion of the work is really important and you can’t find solitude anywhere else, rent a motel room.

If you are in the office, stop telephone interruptions by:

Using an answering machine or voice mail.

Take the telephone off the hook.

Let the receptionist screen your calls.

Ask the switchboard operator to hold your calls.

Use call forward to send your calls to another location.

If you have an office in your home, by all means use your answering machine to record incoming messages. You can then listen to them when you take a break, and prioritize the return calls.

When sitting at your desk, don’t carry on social, trivial or non-business related conversations.

You can discourage other office workers from stopping by to “shoot the bull.” If they persist, simply stand up and move away from your desk to conduct any conversations that are unplanned or undesired.

If someone asks, “Have you got a minute?” Respond with, “I’m in the middle of an important project, can I get back to you?”

Work on acquiring the image of a worker who is sociable at break time, lunch time or after hours. Keep office hours for business.

If you have information to relay to someone you know is long-winded, avoid conversations by faxing your information.