I have been plagued by similar distraction problems in the past like the ones Jay just mentioned, and I still have trouble with it from time to time… but I’ve found a system that I find helps me get what I need to do done. It does take a bit of self-discipline, but I’ve found that setting up a task list and a reward system helps me stay on track.
How it basically works is: you set up a task list of everything you need to do in a day. If you have one large or several large tasks, split them up to make the amount more manageable. Then as you complete items off the list, reward yourself. In Jay’s example, a reward would be playing Assassin’s Creed for 20 or 30 minutes before going back to work.
I’ve found this system extremely effective for getting everything that needs to be done in a day complete. Not only is it satisfying to cross off a task from your list, but you get a temporary distraction.
I don’t know what to call the problem that Jay and I, as well as so many other online entrepreneurs, have - other than a lack of dedication. More than anything, I think that is the difference between people like us who just ‘do okay’ online and the people who make profits that are in the top echelons of the online earners.
November 12th, 2007 at 5:48 pm
the entrepreneurs problem: We are big picture people. We like to create, and dream, not do daily tasks.
I too find myself excited to jump on a new project, find a solution to a problem, but follow through is often the issue for most entrepreneurs. This is where distractions are hard to resist.
I can always resist distractions (even meals) if I am really into something. But when its a marginal task, the smallest distractions can take me off track.