by Marie Bywater

Created on: July 17, 2010   Last Updated: July 18, 2010

If you work online then you will be subject to a multitude of distractions which will take your attention away from your work. The internet is bursting with distractions such as social networks, news stories, emails and shopping sites. If you find yourself spending more and more time on Facebook or replying to emails then you are losing crucial work time. The less time you spend working the less income you are likely to earn. Therefore it is imperative that you find some ways to avoid distractions while you are working online.

Find a quiet room devoid of distractions

There are several offline distractions as well as online distractions; therefore it is extremely important that you find a quiet room to work in. This room should not contain any sources of possible distraction, such as gaming consoles and music stations.  It should contain a large desk fit for work purpose, a comfortable chair to support your back, and a laptop and possibly fax/printer.

Set a schedule

Schedules are a great way to plan the day ahead and ensure you complete all the necessary work tasks. First thing every morning you should log on to your computer, find the tasks that need completed and schedule them out throughout the day. This also provides motivation to finish the work tasks as soon as possible. The quicker you get them finished the sooner you can browse on the internet.

Take regular breaks away from the computer

Spending hours on end looking at a computer screen is not good for your eyes, therefore you should take regular breaks. Breaks should be short, perhaps 10 minutes every hour or so, with the exception of longer breaks for lunch and dinner. Short breaks should be taken away from the computer, perhaps out in the fresh air. This will help you collect your thoughts. Drinking a few glasses of water throughout the working day will also help you concentrate and stay focused on your work.

Organize social browsing periods

If you really must visit Facebook and check emails, do so for 5-10 minutes every two hours. Perhaps set a clock to ensure that once your browsing period is over you close the website and go back to work. If you find you cannot pull yourself away from browsing then you will have to suspend it altogether until the evening when work tasks are completed.  In regular 9-5 jobs Facebook time is not normally permitted so online work should have the same regulations if you want to be disciplined.

Offline routine

If you want to work efficiently online then you need to ensure that you are getting the recommended eight hours sleep each night.  A healthy diet and regular exercise will also help keep the brain active and allow you to maximise the number of hours you are able to work online.  Lack of sleep and poor nutrition may make you lose your focus on work and therefore allow your mind to wonder.

While there are many distractions on the internet there are also several things you can do to combat these distractions. Social browsing should only be carried out whenever work tasks are completed each day.  If you can control your internet usage then you will be able to maximise your income.

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