Identify the Interrupters

Published: Jan 4, 2005

Application

Many times, identifying the problem is half the battle.

One approach is to make lists

List the causes in one column and solutions in another.
Note the sequence such as before, during or after meetings, telephone calls, etc.
Trace the sources: internal, external or yourself.
Do a tally of the frequency.

It's helpful to classify your lists.

People
- Frequent abusers in need of training.
- Human errors - carelessness, caused by a faulty system or otherwise.
- Those fascinated or trapped by the "tyranny of the urgent."
Events, actions or processes
- Unscheduled meetings or avoidable crises.
- In need of calculation.
  - Number of minutes beyond reasonable expectation.
  - Recovery time from specific interruptions.
  - Extent to which objectives were achieved.
- Actions within the I-U- and I-U+ quadrants. Refer to the Introduction to Time Management tuturial.
- Lacking routine work instructions.
- Being recognized as the handy problem solver.
Things or objects
- Mechanical or electronic breakdowns.
- Visual distractions. Since we are compulsive readers.
- Excessive paperwork.
- Red tape.

Keep your results top-of-mind with a visible wall chart or other such device. This is critical for implementing behavioral modifications that evolve over a period of time.

Stories

Do you have a story that relates to this maxim?

Please post your story by emailing it to max@unclemaxsays.com.

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Outcomes

Identified problems become easier to resolve.
Awareness of the many time wasters in our lives.

Identify the Interrupters

Application

Stories

Outcomes

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