This is part of my Tech Workers' Guide To Distraction Free Work

The simplest way to eliminate distractions from social media is to leave social media. Completely. No more endless Facebook debates and Reddit rage. And no more missed deadlines because social media distracted you.

I know this may not be for you. And that’s ok. Just remember that each social media network gobbles your attention. So, consider reducing your usage to only one network.

Or try a social media fast. Go a week without it. Or just a single day. You’ll be surprised at how much extra time you have.

Here’s what I do:

  • Never check Facebook
  • Only get on Reddit for research, which is a couple of times a week.
  • Check Twitter at lunch or during a short break

To be honest, life is so much better since I stopped using Facebook. I have far less drama, read more books, and have more time for writing and exercise.

Take action: Go one day without social media. Then try a week. You’ll be amazed at how much time you reclaim.

Tech Workers' Guide To Distraction Free Work

Common Problems

  1. How Do I Stop Endlessly Researching Topics And Get Stuff Done?

Principles

  1. We Want To Be Distracted
  2. Proximity Matters

Practices: Just Say No

  1. Just say No
  2. Stop Looking For Drama
  3. Beware Of Taking On Extra Responsibility
  4. Make an “I won’t do” list

Practices: Say Yes

  1. Track your distractions
  2. Stay focused with a To Do list
  3. Make a “Big Rock” list
  4. Follow the 2-minute rule
  5. Try the Pomodoro Technique
  6. Make a list of questions

Practices: Control Your Physical Environment

  1. Find your Den of Productivity
  2. Eliminate distracting belongings
  3. Limit disruptive noise
  4. Listen to music
  5. Silence your phone

Practices: Control Your Digital Environment

  1. Close your email
  2. Leave social media
  3. Close your browser tabs
  4. Limit distractions from Slack
  5. Try an app blocker

Practices: Get Organized

  1. Make project documents

What do books say about distraction free work?

“You could try to pound your head against the wall and think of original ideas — or you can cheat by reading them in books.”
—Patrick Collison

  1. “The Obstacle Is the Way” on handling distractions
  2. “The 4-Hour Workweek” on eliminating distractions