When you’re working solo, staying focused isn’t just about motivation. It’s about creating habits that help you manage everyday distractions, especially those from digital channels. In Episode 721, Cami and Bob looked at their methods for keeping online noise in check.
One standout tip is setting strict boundaries for checking emails and messages. Cami explains that she limits herself to checking email three times a day, each session capped at half an hour. This allows her to stay responsive without falling into the trap of spending her workday as an “email machine.” Similarly, if your workspace relies on Slack or other instant messaging, recognize these as potential time drains and set limits that work for you.
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Social media is another major source of distraction. Both hosts share the relief they’ve felt by stepping back from platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok. For Cami, shifting from frequent posting to a weekly cadence has brought her peace, and deleting high-follower accounts was liberating. Bob notes that even with carefully curated feeds, it’s easy to get sidetracked. One moment you’re searching for industry news, the next you’re watching cat videos.
These habits aren’t rigid. As Cami said, personal and business habits overlap, and everyone needs to find what works for them. The key is to recognize common temptations such as constant notification checks, getting stuck in “flow” without breaks, or drifting for hours on social apps and to take small steps every day to steer your routines in a healthier direction.
If you’re a freelancer, remote worker, or anyone who spends a lot of time at a computer, consider the power of these tiny habits. They won’t overhaul your workflow overnight, but little changes can add up to a big improvement in sanity and productivity.
