How to Avoid Distractions While Writing

Avoid noisy distractions by wearing headphones or ear buds.

Writing can be an automatic process for many people, but for some, focusing on writing doesn't come as easily. If you are having trouble focusing on your writing due to outside distractions, you must find ways to keep your attention on your work and away from everything else that is going on around you. Whether you are writing an essay for school, a proposal for work or a personal email, writing requires your complete concentration.

Things You'll Need

• Noise-canceling headphones

Instructions

1. Schedule the times when you plan on writing and when you want to take your breaks. Set a timer to help you stick to the schedule and avoid spending more time on recreational activities than work.

2. Follow the Pomodoro Technique to stay focused while you work. Work in 25-minute increments, with a five-minute break between each session. Set a timer for 25 minutes and write nonstop. When the timer goes off, relax for five minutes and reset the timer for another 25 minutes of writing.

3. Wear noise-canceling headphones or ear buds to block out noises that may cause distractions while you are writing.

4. Set up a designated area in your home where you will do your writing. Write at a desk or a table to help you stay focused for longer periods of time. If you have an office to work from, keep the door closed and hang a do-not-disturb sign on the door.

5. Keep your web browser, email program, instant messenger and any other computer applications closed unless you need them for your writing.

6. Turn off your cell phone, home phone, radio, television and any other electronic distractions that tend to shift your focus from your writing.

Tips & Warnings

• If there are too many distractions at home, go to a quiet location to write, such as the library or a private bookstore with a peaceful area.

References

• Daily Writing Tips: 6 Tips for Focusing When Writing
• Daily Blogging: 5 Tips to Avoid Unwanted Distractions while Writing a Post; Mani Viswanathan; March 2011
• The Pomodoro Technique: Frequently Asked Questions