4 Ways to Deal with Digital Distractions

How often do you find yourself stopping what you are doing at the moment as you are distracted by a notification from your phone?

The "ding" or vibration from my phone, will always get my full attention. In fact, it got to a point where I voluntarily handed over my phone to my mum to safe keep before the start of my exams till the end, during my schooling days.

According to a study of digital distractions, it takes an average person about 23 minutes to get back to what they were doing prior, once distracted.

Well, consider the number of hours you get in a day, 23 minutes doesn’t seem too much right?

What if you are dealing with a string of distractions stretched over a long period of time? You will find yourself far from what you have set out to complete for the day. Personally, I feel unaccomplished and will tend to dwell on it for the rest of the day and this is bad!

Here are some of the ways I used to avoid my infinite distractions!

Photo by Lukas Blazek on Unsplash

#1 Set Time For Distractions
Researchers have found that taking breaks allows you to stay focused on your task. Especially if it is a long and tedious task, short mental breaks will actually help you in staying focused. Perhaps, you can time yourself, 30 mins of undisrupted work for 5 mins of break? Find the best time frame that will help you be more efficient!

Photo by Aleksandar Cvetanovic on Unsplash

#2 Turn Off Notifications
Most phones are able to do that now. Try turning off the notifications on your phone or mute the app. This will prevent the “unwanted screen light-up” or the urge to check your phone! If you are afraid that somebody might be urgently looking for you, do let them know in advance and give them an alternative contact method.

Photo by John Cameron on Unsplash

#3 Stay Away from The Possible Source of Distractions
Log out from Facebook, Instagram, delete the apps, switch off your phone or put it far away from you. That should lower the chance of distractions. Otherwise, pass it to your mom, colleague, spouse to safe keep them, like I did.  Hahaha! Try it to know if it works for you!

Photo by Thao Le Hoang on Unsplash

#4 Self Discipline
Well, it all boils down to this right? Promise yourself to work and complete the task on hand by a certain time. To make it more attractive, reward yourself with a longer time with your phone, or a delicious meal!

Try it and let me know if it works! The feeling of having completed a task will make you feel fulfilled the rest of the day and it's definitely worth the hassle!

Speaking of which, if you need help rewarding yourself with a delicious meal, head over to FoodLine.sg and order now!

Nothing can beat a scrumptious meal waiting on the dining table after a long day of working hard!

If you would like to reward your employees or colleagues from their hardwork, do drop an email to corporate@foodline.sg or call 6592 5057 for more information!

Feature Image By Jonas Leupe on Unsplash