But we do not want to tell our clients, managers, and co-workers that we aren’t there for them… So now you can have best of both. You have a specific time predetermined in your day that you are available for ‘scheduled interruptions.’ Instead to denying requests of others, you can simply plan a time that you will be able to help them.

The second component is to stick to your schedule and communicate to others when you are available for them and when you are not. If this seems unrealistic or impractical, that is because you have never tried it! In long run, your boss with be impressed that you are getting more done, you will have more quality time to prevent most of your clients’ crises, and your coworkers will learn that you are not at their beck and call.

A frequent question people ask is, “how much interruption time do I need to schedule and when should I schedule it?” That, of course, is going to vary from person to person, but as a general rule, I say as much as you need and when it is convenient for you. If you are manager of a large group of people, you are going to have more people knocking on your door for help with their challenges than if you are just getting started with a company. Try out amount you think will be adequate and you will quickly realize if it’s right amount for your needs. Most people find that right before or after lunch makes sense, as that is an easy breaking time in middle of day.

Be Free!