Defeating the Demons of Distraction: Positive Writing Settings

Defeating the Demons of Distraction: Positive Writing Settings

ADD Coaches Blog, July 31, 2007

            If you are like me or many other coaches who have home offices, you may be plagued by distractions that interfere with writing productivity.  Sometimes the distractions involve a blaring television, barking dog, bickering family members, or deliveries.  Other times, you get lost on the internet or in phone conversations, or lose your focus to other household temptations like snacking or hobbies.

            There are times I am just not getting down to writing. At such times, I need to mentally get away from it all so I can tune into my writing and tune out of the rest of the world. When the writing is arduous or I’m unfocused, I need to create a structured, pleasant, and non-distracting setting in which to work. Sometimes I can organize that environment in my home office, but sometimes I can’t. I need to change rather than reorganize the setting.

            Here are some tips to create positive and non-distracting conditions for writing: 

1. Set a time period to write when you are usually most alert.
2. Commit to between 30 to 90 minutes of writing with ample breaks every 20 to 30 minutes. 
3. Schedule a regular writing time on your calendar, perhaps 2 to 3 times a week.
4. Find a quiet, non-distracting setting that is different than the one in which you usually work. Designate this place as the writing nook or sanctuary. It can be in a basement, library, or coffee shop, depending on your personal needs and style.
5. Enhance the pleasantness by using energizing fragrances such as evergreen, writing with colored pens, or choosing interesting paper.
6. Get comfortable. Use a cushioned chair, wear a favorite soft jacket, and put on a working hat or visor.
7. Ensure that there is room to spread out and have easy access to materials or resources.

            In my own case, I go to the library when I need to concentrate on developing new ideas or working out a problem. I go to a coffee house when the writing task involves less complex or detailed work. What about you?

            Try this practical application in the next week:

• Ask questions such as:
  • When was the last time I wrote in an effective way?
  • Under what conditions did this writing occur?
  • Is the setting that I’m using now contributing to progress toward my writing goals?
  • How can I enhance the setting in which I write in terms of lighting, noise, interruptions, or visual distractions?
• Experiment with 1 or 2 other settings, perhaps with better light, less noise, fewer interruptions, etc.
• Make a list of the conditions that seem to be most conducive to staying on a positive writing track.

            Next week’s topic will deal with questions sent in by readers of this blog. Until next week--don’t let those Demons of Distraction get you down.

Best regards, Geri

Check out my Web site www.managingyourmind.com to find books and products about the Demons of Distraction.

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