How To Avoid Distraction When Trying to Get Things Done

As far as productive and focused work is concerned, I am not perfect, and often I get distracted by new e-mail and then I also open Instagram… one-hour passed and my work is not done yet! 🙂
 
Yes, happen (probably) to everyone. To avoid this as much as possible, I have created a routine with which I always work with 100% focus and, of course, the work is done in shortest possible time. Then I still have time for other stuff…
 

 

1 | To-do list

First I create a list of all task. In the morning I choose the top 3 task and then all others. For every task, I try to write down how much time I will need to complete it and award when I finished it (like coffee, longer break…).
 
The work is much more focused if my desk is organized, clean, without unnecessary stuff… 🙂 Only a glass of water and coffee are always welcome. Then the action starts.
 
To create a to-do list you can use:
– Applications: Wunderlist, Swipes, Asana, MeisterTask…
– Free printable to-do list
 

2 | Notifications

First I close all unnecessary tabs in my browser, Airmail, turn off notifications and set iPhone to airplane mode. So I avoid all unnecessary distractions. If possible (which is almost impossible due to my nature of work), it is ideal to work offline.
 

3 | Headphones

Even if I am alone at home (in my office) I use headphones, when I really want to be focused. This allows me to focus and external sounds don’t disturb me.
 

4 | Music

I recently discovered the brain.fm website – Music for the Brain, which is ideal for listening to music while working. Also, it has to be right volume, of course.
 
Before that, I used YouTube:
– 3 Hour Relaxing Guitar Music: Meditation Music, Instrumental Music, Calming Music, Soft Music, ☯2432
– Guitar del Mar – (Balearic Cafe Chillout Island Lounge)
– Roberto Sol – So Awesome
– Upbeat Instrumental Work Music | Background Happy Energetic Relaxing Music for Working Fast & Focus
 

5 | Pomodoro Technique

I still use the Pomodoro technique on a regular basis, because it really works and I do my work in the shortest possible time. In short, with this technique you work for 25 minutes, then take a break for five minutes to do something not work-related (eg make coffee, check Twitter, Instagram…).
 
More about Pomodoro Technique you can find:
– Pomodoro Technique will boost your productivity
– Free Pomodoro Printable To Do list
 
I know that if I do these five things, that I’m setting myself up for success and more likely to stay focused while I’m working! And after work is completed I feel amazing, because my work is done and then I have time to work on some other stuff. 🙂
 
Do you have any special focus techniques?