A Deep Discussion about Dealing with Digital Distractions

Buzz, buzz, buzz. No, it’s not a bee, but it’s equally as distracting—it’s another digital notification that’s pulling you away from your other priorities. Dealing with digital distractions is a daily dedication, but one we all must definitely deal with.

What are digital distractions?

• Pings
• Rings
• Beeps
• Buzzes
• The constant stream of notifications that break our concentration

What are some examples?

• Email notifications
• Slack pings
• Text messages
• Phone calls
• Status updates
• Social media notifications
• App badges
• News alerts
• Amber alerts

Why are these problematic?

• They break our focus and keep us in shallow work
• People can’t really multi-task like we think we can
• It keeps us pulled toward the urgent rather than the important
• They’re major time wasters

When should we be wary of distractions?

• During meetings
• During important work blocks
• Before bed
• During meal times
• When spending time with people who matter

Why does this matter in marketing?

• Because we’re competing for people’s attention with these distractions
• Because often these distractions are also marketing messages

How do we deal with digital distractions?

• Go on Focus mode (in a Mac)
• Turn off certain notifications
• Schedule time to check email and social accounts
• Set up timers for certain time-wasting apps
• Leave your phone in another room
• Take regular tech-free breaks during the day
• reMarkable, Kindle Scribe, clarity breaks
• Keep a “mind like water” so you can clear your head a bit more