Time Management & Avoiding Distractions: Easier Said Than Done

Let’s be honest – staying focused at work isn’t always easy.

Between messages, meetings, notifications, and friendly interruptions, it doesn’t take much to break your flow. You sit down with a clear plan to make progress on a project or finally clear out your inbox, and then – ping – your focus is gone in an instant.

We’ve all been there.

Time management might sound like a buzzword, but at its core, it’s about protecting your ability to do meaningful work – not just checking things off a list, but carving out the space to really think, create, and solve problems. And yes, it’s easier said than done.

That doesn’t mean cutting yourself off completely or avoiding conversations that build team spirit. A quick chat, a spontaneous laugh, or helping a colleague troubleshoot something – those moments matter. But it’s also okay to draw a line when you need to concentrate. Knowing when to switch gears and get into “focus mode” is part of working well, not something to feel bad about.

What Can Help?

Here are a few strategies that many of us have found useful:

• Block focus time in your calendar – even just an hour can make a difference.
• Silence notifications when you’re deep in a task.
• Use status tools (like Teams or Slack) to let people know you’re heads-down.
• Be clear and kind about boundaries – a quick, “I’m just finishing something, can I check in with you in 30?” goes a long way.

It’s not about being unapproachable. It’s about giving yourself (and your teammates) the best shot at delivering great work without unnecessary pressure or distraction.

Respecting Focus Helps Everyone

When you give yourself permission to protect your time, you’re not just helping yourself – you’re contributing to a healthier team culture. One where people feel trusted to manage their time, and where it’s okay to prioritise deep work over constant availability.

That also goes for leaders. Sometimes, the well-meaning “Have you got a minute?” can snowball into a half-hour chat –  especially if it pulls someone out of an intense task. Being mindful of when and how we interrupt each other helps build mutual respect and trust across the team.

Everyone Works Differently

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to managing time and distractions. Some people thrive with music in the background; others need total silence. Some prefer short sprints of work; others go all-in for hours. The key is figuring out what works for you – and being open with your team about it.

If you’re not sure what’s getting in the way of your focus, take a step back and reflect. Are there certain times of day when you’re most productive? Are there small adjustments that could help reduce distractions or create more structure?

Let’s Learn From Each Other

Managing your time and attention is an ongoing challenge – especially in busy periods. But it’s also something we can all get better at, together. What helps you stay on track? Are there routines, tools, or habits that make a real difference for you?

We’d love to hear your tips. Because the more we share, the more we all grow.