We live in a world that is more intrusive and distracting than ever. It takes more coordination and concentrated effort to complete a list of tasks in a productive fashion than ever. Getting a project done without at least one interruption of some sort is seldom at best.

I'm even being interrupted as I write this article ... excuse me while I take this call.

Okay, I'm back, sorry about that!

In order to be happy with your personal productivity, you have to control distractions. The first step is to minimize noise. Incoming emails, instant messages, twitter updates and text messages ALL make noise by default, and it is literally killing your productivity.

None of these communication methods are ways to inform someone of anything urgent, so why do we feel the need to stop what we're doing and go check something every time we are summoned by the noise? Here's a thought ... turn them off!

That is my challenge to you: turn noises for email, instant messaging, twitter and text messages OFF for a week. Check them on your own time, not when it causes you to be less productive. I am willing to bet you will like the change of pace, and get more done in the process.

The only noise I am willing to stick with is the phone. Everything else can wait until you are finished with what you are doing. If it's urgent, believe me, they will call.