Getting Organized _ “Managing Interruptions #2


*You never get the chance to take a nap, but this afternoon you’re so sleepy and everyone is
gone, so you decide to lie down for a few minutes...The phone rings.

*You finally get some time to finish a project that needs to be finished and your spouse comes
home early.

*You finally sit down with the tea or coffee to breath for a few minutes...the door bell rings, the
dog barks, the baby ( after 20 minutes of sleep) wakes up do to the clamor.

Does any of this sound familiar?

Most interruptions can be prevented, but there are times they can’t. You can only do your best to
control it by planning ahead. Here are some goals:

* Try to prevent interruptions that can be foreseen.

* Keep interruptions that are inevitable to a minimum.

* Shorten interruptions that occur.

Planning

Most interruptions come about because the priorities of someone else come into conflict with
what you’ve planned. People show up unexpected, your kids need you, spouses need something,
the list goes on and on. Here are 18 ways to minimize these types of interruptions:

* Ask friends and family not to come over without notice.

* Group together interruptions that are within your control. Have your appointments arrive around
times that work for you.

* If you live in an apartment building with a doorman, ask him to hold packages and deliveries for
you. Have them brought up at one time.

*Help your family help themselves. Look for things that are requested the most and make sure the
kids and spouse can get them easily. Even two-year olds can reach things if you put them in their
reach.
                               
*On a day-to-day basis, anticipate the needs your family may or will encounter and expect you to
fulfill. Put things in one spot every time so everyone know where they are.

*Teach your family that a closed door or a “DO Not Disturb” sign means business.

*Learn to say no. If you feel that you have acted as family waitress and kind neighbor too many
times this weekend, and you have no private time of your own, stand your ground.

* Set up rewards. Promise kids something great for 30 minutes of no interruptions. DON’T
PROMISE SOMETHING YOU WILL NOT COMMIT TO. THEY WILL NOT FOLLOW THE
RULE IF YOU DON’T DO WHAT YOU PROMISE.

*The telephone answering machine has been the greatest home invention since sliced bread. Turn
in on when you need some quiet time.

* Last resort leave the house. Sometimes it is needed to have some quiet. Make sur the people in
the home know that you left and kids are safe.

Managing Interruptions

*If someone over the age of 4 is interruption you try this:
    “Can I Help You?”
* I’d love to hear about it, but would I come and discuss if once I am finished my project please.”
   With kids you need to speak with kids about time in a way they can understand. Explain what
    You need to finish and then talk with them

* Don’t prolong a conversation or do anything to extend an interruptions.
* Plan for the fact that there will be interruptions.  So do your best to keep things that you
   You need close to you like food, phone, and other needed things.

Don’t Be Your Own Interrupter

* Don’t use interruptions as an excuse to avoid your work.

* Don’t make the mistake of initiating phone calls or visit to break the peace.

* Don’t encourage unnecessary telephone calls from family and friends.

* Don’t start another project before you finish the first one. You can’t focus on what you are
doing.

* Don’t procrastinate. Once you have the time, use it!