"The focus block method...has you block off a substantial chunk of time, most days of the week, for applying sustained focus to your most important creative tasks...The key twist is that you mark this time on your calendar like any other meeting. This is especially important if your organization uses a shared calendar system.
Now, when someone tries to schedule something during these times, you can defer to your existing, clearly marked obligation: "Sorry, I'm already booked from nine to twelve that day." Similarly, if someone complains that you were slow to respond to an e-mail, or didn't pick up the phone, you have a socially acceptable excuse "I was booked all morning and am just seeing this now." People are used to the idea that they cannot demand your attention during times when you already have a scheduled appointment...
Blocking off time for uninterrupted focus, however, is only half the battle. The other half is resisting distractions. This means no e-mail, no Internet and no phone...If you've been immersed in distraction for years, you need to train yourself before you can work for long periods without it. A few tips can help you in this effort:
Start with small blocks of focused time and then gradually work yourself up to longer durations...begin with an hour at a time, then add fifteen minutes to each session every two weeks. The key, however, is to never allow distraction. If you give in and quickly check Facebook, cancel the whole block and try again later. Your mind can never come to believe that even a little bit of distraction is okay during these blocks.
Tackle a clearly identified and isolated task...
Consider using a different location for these blocks. Move to a different room, or a library, or even a quiet place outside to perform your focused work. When possible, do your work with pen and paper to avoid even the possibility of online distraction."
- "Manage Your Day-to-Day: Build Your Routine, Find Your Focus, and Sharpen Your Creative Mind (The 99U Book Series)" by Jocelyn K. Glei and 99U
Now, when someone tries to schedule something during these times, you can defer to your existing, clearly marked obligation: "Sorry, I'm already booked from nine to twelve that day." Similarly, if someone complains that you were slow to respond to an e-mail, or didn't pick up the phone, you have a socially acceptable excuse "I was booked all morning and am just seeing this now." People are used to the idea that they cannot demand your attention during times when you already have a scheduled appointment...
Blocking off time for uninterrupted focus, however, is only half the battle. The other half is resisting distractions. This means no e-mail, no Internet and no phone...If you've been immersed in distraction for years, you need to train yourself before you can work for long periods without it. A few tips can help you in this effort:
Start with small blocks of focused time and then gradually work yourself up to longer durations...begin with an hour at a time, then add fifteen minutes to each session every two weeks. The key, however, is to never allow distraction. If you give in and quickly check Facebook, cancel the whole block and try again later. Your mind can never come to believe that even a little bit of distraction is okay during these blocks.
Tackle a clearly identified and isolated task...
Consider using a different location for these blocks. Move to a different room, or a library, or even a quiet place outside to perform your focused work. When possible, do your work with pen and paper to avoid even the possibility of online distraction."
- "Manage Your Day-to-Day: Build Your Routine, Find Your Focus, and Sharpen Your Creative Mind (The 99U Book Series)" by Jocelyn K. Glei and 99U
