(More On Energy Management Cont. 4)

More Details on the Mind Dimension

Introduction

Need to realise that multi-tasking undermines productivity
"...Distractions are costly: a temporary shift in attention from one task to another......increases the amount of time necessary to finish the primary task by as much as 25%..."
Tony Schwartz et al, 2007

This is called switching time.

A better effort involves ultradian sprints, ie focus fully on 90 to 120 minutes; take a break; then move on to the next activity.

Need to develop rituals to reduce the relentless interruptions that technology causes by:

        a) working away from phones and e-mail whenever the charge requires concentration
        b) turning off phones, Internet, etc during meetings
        c) setting specific times to take phone calls, visit e-mails, listen to voice mails, etc.

Focus systematically on activities that have most long-term leverage, rather than lunging from crisis to crisis.

Prioritise work by focusing on the most important topics.

NB
"...avoiding the constant distractions that technology has introduced increases mental energy..."
Tony Schwartz et al, 2007

Some important components of managing mental energy

        a) stop multitasking ("...Multitasking results in decreased mental speed, more errors, and even increased risk of health problems.....for important tasks that require full attention, avoid distractions by finding a quiet place to work. In addition, experts recommend turning off the phone and disengaging from e-mail while trying to focus attention..."
Gretchen M Spreitzer et al, 2011)

        b) take a break ("...Whereas smoking and coffee breaks have been found to be detrimental to health, rest breaks and physical activity breaks have been found to be beneficial......for example, frequent 10 minute breaks that involve flexibility and strength exercise routines increase mood and decrease fatigue, anger and depression.....The most powerful restoration effect comes from taking a break from individual tasks by switching to a different task or doing something you enjoy......try to take a break every 90 to 120 minutes to maximise attention and focus..."
Gretchen M Spreitzer et al, 2011