Attention and focus.
WHAT COSTS MOST TIME
Interruptions Switching between tasks Searching for things Repeating work already done
WHAT TO DO ABOUT INTERRUPTIONS
Disable notifications that do not require immediate response.
WHAT TO CHECK
Which applications notify you, and whether each earns it.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT SWITCHING
Work in blocks on one thing, and resist checking messages between.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT SEARCHING
Organise and name files consistently.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT REPEATED WORK
Create templates Use text expansion Automate what repeats
WHAT TO SCHEDULE
Messages and email, at set times rather than continuously.
WHY
Continuous checking prevents sustained work on anything.
WHAT TO BE HONEST ABOUT
How long tasks actually take, measured rather than estimated.
WHAT TO PROTECT
A period of uninterrupted time each day for work requiring concentration.
WHAT TO AVOID
Productivity systems more elaborate than the work they organise.
