Picture two dozen unread documents at your desk, at least 25 time-contingent emails within your inbox, with a do-or-die meeting in three hours. Then somebody knocks on your door with a “quick question.” Did your concentration just get obliterated? Yes, it did.
Your time and focus is valuable, but co-workers need attention too. More importantly, they need answers to individual questions. While responding might help prevent a mistake, getting back on track isn’t easy.
Balancing leadership with personal tasks can be challenging, but is possible. Watch this quick video and learn a simple trick to stay focused, keep your workers happy, and increase productivity.
Action Steps:
- Stay focused by emphasizing an office culture of “when” rather than “now.”
- Organize regular 1:1 meetings where workers can ask questions and offer comments.
- Use the comment section to tell us about your strategies for answering questions and scheduling co-worker meetings.
Principles:
- Answering small questions can sap your time and concentration.
- Create a routine that maximizes your ability to stay focused and productive.
- Scheduling 1:1 attention is a very effective means to control day-to-day interruptions.
