Tackling Interruptions and Distractions

Ever find yourself busy all day yet feeling like you've accomplished nothing? You're not alone. As physicians, we face an overwhelming number of interruptions in our day - many of which didn't exist even a few years ago.

What You'll Learn:

• Why constant interruptions are destroying your focus and productivity
• How to set clear, kind boundaries with staff and colleagues
• Why multitasking is actually procrastination in disguise
• Practical strategies to handle both external interruptions and internal distractions

The Interruption Problem

We're bombarded with distractions that our brains aren't designed to handle - from Epic messages popping up during patient visits to constant texts and emails. These interruptions don't just slow us down; they can make patient care unsafe.

When someone interrupts you with a non-urgent question:

• Don't respond immediately
• Use clear, kind language: "I can't answer that right now. Please refer to the clinic policy."
• Remember that each time you allow an interruption, you teach people it's okay to interrupt you

Setting Boundaries

You can take control by:

• Teaching others when you'll respond (not immediately!)
• Setting specific times to check messages and email
• Communicating clear windows when staff can bring questions to you (e.g., "between 12-12:30 when I'm done with morning patients")

Handling Internal Distractions

When you feel bored, frustrated, or low energy during your workday, you likely seek distractions (checking email, social media, grabbing unnecessary snacks). Instead:

• Recognize these feelings as normal
• Take quick, intentional breaks that serve you (deep breathing, jumping jacks, brief colleague interaction)
• Choose the "uphill" task (finishing notes now) over the "downhill" task (checking email)

Remember: Finishing a note immediately after seeing a patient takes minutes, while coming back to it days later can take 10-15 minutes. Those small choices add up to major time savings.

Take Action Now

You are not lazy or broken for struggling with focus. Our human brains seek dopamine and relief from discomfort. But by making different choices about how you handle interruptions and distractions, you can regain control of your day and finally feel accomplished when you leave work.

"I will not be stopped by interruptions anymore outside of medical emergencies. I will not let my brain get disrupted. I will not blame myself or say unkind words to myself. I will just choose to make some different decisions."