So many things can interrupt your focus and kill concentration in the workplace. These interruptions can be in emails, social media, side talks with colleagues, and even requests from fellow workers to help them out with one task or the other. Whatever may be the reason, interruptions generally can lead to the loss of valuable time that would have been channeled towards the achievement of set goals. 

Some work environments are more prone to interruptions than others. For instance, workplaces that operate an open office model where employees work from one large office are more prone to disruption than places where each employee has their own office. Therefore, no matter the nature of your workplace, interruptions are bound to occur a few times a day.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic and many organizations adopting a hybrid workplace where employees work from the comfort of their homes, it has become increasingly important for one to learn the necessary hacks required to cut down on interruptions to achieve more within the day.  

Realizing these interruptions are a thief of valuable time needed to achieve set goals will help you bring it down to the barest minimum. 

Tips to Manage Interruptions During Work Hours

The following tips will help manage interruptions during work hours.

#1. Organize your Messages and Emails

The volume of messages and emails that flow within the team will significantly increase, especially with groups that work remotely. As a result, there has been an increased need to communicate with team members in different places. While this is good, the constant notifications from messages and emails can be a significant source of distractions.

Therefore, you should turn off your notifications and have a specific time for attending to all messages. It is possible that you are working in a team and may need to collaborate with them throughout the day constantly. Give them a different contact channel and request that they only use it when it is an emergency. Doing this will help minimize interruptions.

#2. Have a Workable Timeline for Work-related Activities

Setting a timeline for work-related activities helps you avoid the temptations of interruptions and focus on the work at hand. Also, trying to multi-task can be a huge source of distraction which will invariably slow you down considerably. 

Research has shown that the human brain is naturally not wired to switch from one activity to another. So, to avoid the guilt resulting from switching from one task to the other, stay on a task and ensure that you complete it before moving to the next one.

One of the most significant time wasters is mindlessly scrolling through your phone or social media. While turning off your notification is a good start; still, you will need to discipline yourself and not pick up your phone. 

Also, avoid mindless chit-chats when you still have unaccomplished tasks on your table. For example, personal errands and chit-chats can wait until your break period, when you can do them without having to worry about not meeting up with deadlines.

Bottom Line

It is almost impossible to avoid interruptions while working. However, with constant practice and personal discipline, one can, over time, identify these time wasters and bring them down to the barest minimum. The result is usually a balanced and happier work and personal life where you are highly productive at work and your personal life is not being neglected.