: Distractions to Avoid while Writing

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(449 Words)
Distractions are a pitfall that many writers face. Oftentimes writers work from home, where there is a wealth of opportunities to take breaks and move to other activities. Because even a small break can cause you to drop your focus and lose a significant amount of time, it is important to try to avoid distractions as much as possible.
The telephone
For many, a ringing phone is an undeniable temptation. They just need to pick it up, even if it is not vital. You can’t even escape this by going to a library or somewhere quiet if you bring your cell phone. As much as possible you want to avoid picking up ringing phones. Get a caller ID system so that you can know if it is vital. If it is something like a hospital, your child’s school or your elderly grandmother’s nursing home, then pick it up, however you should ignore the vast number of unnecessary calls. You can listen as the machine picks up to make sure it is not an emergency if you are worried. You can also turn off your phone if you do not expect any calls that could be emergencies. If you have a certain writing schedule, then you can also ask that people try not to call you during that time.
Checking e-mail
Many people write on their computers thus e-mail is one of the worst distractions. They may have a message or sound that pops up every time mail comes in, and they may feel compelled to check it. Turn off the program!
Surfing the Internet
Perhaps you are legitimately on a website doing research for one of your articles but then you see an ad for a store you like. What a great deal, you think, and before you know it you are shopping instead of writing. You might want to keep your browser closed unless you absolutely need it and then resist going off into cyberspace.
Visitors
If you have unexpected guests you can ask that they come back at a later time. You can try not to have others around you. If you have a house full of people, then consider going somewhere like a library to get some privacy.
Food
You do not want to start writing only to have to stop fifteen minutes later because you are starving. You should eat before you start. You also might want to have a drink already at your desk so you do not have to get up.
Distractions can slow down a writer and should be avoided. The above temptations are some you might face. With effort you can minimize distractions and make the most of your writing time.
Updated On: 09/10/2010 Published On: 09/10/2010 Article ViewerClose
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