Jackie Goldstein's Weblog

I have been trying to be more productive during my usual working hours lately.  Coincidently, I came across this article via SQLServerCentral.com.  It is a clear article, focusing really on productivity - of which email/blogs/surfing is probably the biggest productivity waster for us tech-types. Another key point is that we really need a solid, focussed window of at least 3 hours in order to really get anything done.

Here is the summary:

• Big Rule: It takes three hours to get anything done.
• Guidelines:
  1. Turn off your email client, put your 'phone in "do not disturb".
  2. Isolate yourself.  Get good headphones.  Warn colleagues when you're "in the zone", to minimize their interrupts.
  3. Minimize meetings and schedule them to avoid three-hour windows.
  4. Become self-aware about warping off and try to un-stuck yourself.