Strong Fences, Open Gates: Mastering the Balance Between Distraction and Connection

Interruptions—whether from email, notifications, or colleagues—can have a negative impact on our focus and productivity. Interruptions are not just minor annoyances, they are “toxic” to concentration and the quality of work produced. There is much scientific studies that show that it can take up to 30 minutes to regain focus after being interrupted, and that the “attention residue” from switching tasks leads to poorer performance on subsequent tasks. In short, interruptions are a major barrier to productivity and cognitive restoration. I advocate for structured work routines and clear boundaries to protect periods of productive focus and rest.

And… the right kind of interruptions are what make life truly meaningful and rich. After all, for what purpose are we being productive? A call from my daughter in the middle of a busy day to face time with my young granddaughter, Juno. A voice mail from a friend who needs to talk right after she put her dog down. An invitation from my wife to go for a walk…
The key in life is to put a strong fence to keep the wrong kind of interruptions at bay, and open the gate to the interruptions that matter.