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Your post highlights the core of the problem. Ultimately, productivity solutions have to include a recognition that technology can only enhance your self-contro
by jncraton 15y ago
Your post highlights the core of the problem. Ultimately, productivity solutions have to include a recognition that technology can only enhance your self-control; it can't replace it. I, like you, have spent days trying to optimize my work space and computer for productivity. It was a waste of time.
The best way to get work done is to get somewhere where you can focus. This includes not just location, but also mindset. If I really want to focus, I have to train myself to avoid thoughts like, "it would be nice if those exceptions that I just added to my hosts file would update themselves based on my browsing habits..."
I go somewhere alone, pop in ear buds playing some type of non-distracting noise, shutdown my email client, turn off my phone, and go to work.
- zachcb 15y agoI am one who can also get easily distracted by going to other sites. Usually an article like the one posted here would take me about 25 minutes to read because I'd switch tabs after about the first two paragraphs. The only thing that has helped me is if I can catch myself switching tabs. I think it's kind of "retraining your brain." There are other techniques that you can try, such as having three computers in separate rooms. One is for your work, another is for play (slashdot, TechCrunch, etc) and the last one is for communication (email, Facebook, twitter, etc) although those could fit under play as well. ADHD drugs work great (specifically Concerta) but the side effects can be quite bothersome.