How to: Get it done

We, as human beings, have an attention span problem. Research from a new study from Microsoft shows that people generally lose concentration after eight seconds. So in the time it took you to read this paragraph, you’ve probably checked your phone, opened another tab in your web browser, switched tracks in iTunes – or maybe all of the above.

The study tracked the brain activity of 2,000 participants, and found a 35 percent decrease from 2004, when our attention span was 12 seconds. Our average attention span is now shorter than that of a goldfish. At least they can focus on that underwater castle for nine seconds.

Paul K. Burton, the developer of the QuietSpacing methodology for addressing productivity challenges, provides these suggestions for gaining back your attention span and the productivity that comes along with it.
 

Creating attention

Consider these four ways to leverage your work environment to create attention.

Short bursts. Work in short, focused bursts. Seek out 15- to 20-minute periods of concerted effort that achieve a defined result.

Highly formatted. Identify repeatable processes in your work and create pre-formatted lists and documents to expedite the work. This includes routine emails, as well as form documents.

Prep/outline in advance. Prepare for meetings and calls. Specifically, list topics and objectives. This keeps the event on track.

Meet in person. In-person meetings force us to pay attention. Schedule face-to-face meetings or videoconferences to make the most of the time being spent.
 

Protecting attention

Consider these four ways to shield your attention from distraction.

Turn off electronic interruptions. Command your technology versus letting it command you.

Find/create quiet focus spaces. Sit just behind the door or escape to an empty office during the short-burst productivity periods.

Only one item open. Keep extra screens and files closed when not specifically working on them. It keeps the wandering eye at home.

Make morning “production” time. Use the first hour or two of each morning to push out as much work as possible. The rest of the day can be used for addressing the needs of others.

Learn more at www.quietspacing.com