Hey, it's Mark.

Let’s talk about the most overlooked productivity killer: the surprise interruption.

You know the one.
​
Someone shows up and says, “Hey, got five minutes?”​
​
Spoiler: it’s never five minutes. It’s a stealth productivity thief—disguised as friendly conversation.

Here’s how to shut it down without guilt:

✅ If you’re busy, say so.​
Be honest. “I can’t give you time right now. Let’s schedule it.” Clear. Kind. Final.

✅ If you do have five minutes, set a timer.​
Yes, literally. Start the countdown and say, “Go.” When there’s a minute left, say so.
And when time’s up? Break eye contact, say “Hope that helped,” and get back to work.

✅ Make your space uninviting.​
Remove chairs. Stack stuff on them. People won’t want to stand for ten minutes, and they definitely won’t sit on the floor.
No comfy seat = no unexpected visit.

✅ Let your calendar speak for you.​
Block focus time. Label it. Share it if needed. Use a wall calendar if you’re in-office. Visibility drives respect.

✅ Say no—without guilt.​
Every “yes” is a hidden “no” to something else. Guard your time like a pro. Say no more often. And mean it.

✅ What if it’s your boss?​
Try this: “I’m fully booked. I’m working on A, B, and C. What should I pause to make space for this?”
That’s not pushback—that’s clarity. Real leaders respect it.

Here’s the truth:
Your time isn’t just valuable—it’s non-renewable.
The better you defend it, the more control you regain.

If distractions are hijacking your time and you want help getting clarity on what really matters, let’s talk.

👉 Book your free 15-minute Clarity Sprint Call here.

I’ll help you spot your time leaks and create a plan to patch ‘em—fast.

Mark

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