What?

Frequently stopping and restarting when working on a project or task is a significant productivity killer. Here's a simple time management tip…stop stopping so much and you will get more done in less time.

So What?

Some people have become so reactive-responsive that they believe they can't sit still and concentrate anymore. However, anyone who can sit through a movie has the ability to stick to the task at hand. Think about it, if you can stick with a movie, you have proven you are capable of sustained concentration for a couple of hours. Of course, it helps that movie theaters usually do a great job of minimizing distractions when the main feature starts. Conditions are right for concentrating on one thing…the movie. Try the same thing at work. Minimize any distractions and focus on the main event. When you sit down and start working on a project, don't stop until you finish it. And remember, an overwhelming project is always made up of a lot of little projects. Pick one of the little projects and finish it from beginning to end. Then, use the time you've saved by not stopping and starting to go enjoy a good movie.

Now What?

Set appointments with yourself and stick to them. Let's say you need a couple of hours to concentrate on a particular project tomorrow. You decide to work on the project from 10 a.m. until noon, but you do not put it on your calendar. Meanwhile, someone calls and asks if you can meet with them at 10:30 the next morning. You glance at your calendar and see nothing scheduled and say, "Sure, why not.” They have, in effect, stolen your time. Of course, you don't want to say, "I've got an appointment with myself.” You simply tell them, "I've already got something scheduled for that time tomorrow. Can we do it another time?” The majority of the t

ime, the other person will accommodate you and look for another time to meet with you. And you remain in control of one of your most valuable resources…your time.

Stop interrupting yourself. Stop letting other people interrupt you so much. Learn to concentrate and stick with a project. Interruptions are going to occur. It's a way of life these days. Just try to minimize them.

Look for ways you interrupt yourself or ways you let others interrupt you. You can't stop all of them, but you can stop most of them.

Tell Your Friend