TN62 Know what distracts you

First published on this website in October 2011 and last updated in September 2023

Synopsis

Christian leaders face a range of distractions that prevent them using their time effectively. Reasons include a lack of natural discipline and accountability, little effective support and encouragement and high expectations from different parties.

On the basis that identification is the first step to action, these Notes list 20 possibilities under five main headings so that readers can select two or three to work on. The headings selected are:

• Working from home (for those who do)
• Messages
• Seeing and listening
• Administration
• Worry.

For example, the four distractions described under the 'Messages' heading are:

• Telephone
• Electronic messages
• Post
• Unplanned visitors.

Those under the 'Worry' heading are:

• External nuisance
• Lack of peace
• Poor health
• Responsibility.

Various ideas for possible action are given in most cases.

One comment helpfully added: "A good development from this paper would be to start populating remedies and how to's (e.g. configuring MS Outlook to NOT pop up instant views of e-mails - which helps you then only see e-mails when you go and consciously check for new e-mail that's arrived). [And for those who are wondering, Options, Mail, and uncheck "Desktop Alert"]"

Another said, "Some good pointers, although with food and drink I find I need reminders to go and get a drink so that a) I don't dehydrate b) I don't get too stiff from sitting for too long. With all of these it's all about achieving a balance because they are all possible resources to benefit us, as well as possible distractions."

These notes were updated in September 2023 with minor amendments to the text and layout.