Na minha atividade, sou constantemente acionado por meu time, clientes internos e externos, além de colegas executivos, com demandas que não posso ignorar. Para equilibrar isso, organizo minha agenda com flexibilidade, reservo blocos para tarefas prioritárias, delego sempre que possível e uso ferramentas para retomar o foco após interrupções. Com planejamento e boa gestão do tempo, é possível atender às demandas sem comprometer a qualidade das entregas.

Setup an dedicated time block (e.g. 30 mins) and let the person know that they can utilize that time frame in the week to discuss their need. Doing so can benefit both way, from protecting your own workflow to be able to provide close attention to their request. And, sometimes, those interruption are actually taken care of before the dedicated time block in the week is reached.

Start by observing patterns: when do the interruptions occur, and are they urgent? This helps you approach the situation with clarity. Have a polite yet direct conversation with your co-worker. For example, “I value your input, but I’ve noticed frequent interruptions make it harder to stay on top of my tasks. Can we find a better time to connect?” Offer alternatives, like scheduled check-ins or collaborating through emails or messages. Create visual cues for focus time, such as wearing headphones or setting your status to “Do Not Disturb.” Communicate your dedicated focus periods to the team to align expectations. Reclaiming focus requires blending clear communication with empathy. Set respectful boundaries to be able to stay productive.

Consider how you are enabling the interruptions. If it’s a virtual interruption: You can allocate scheduled time to respond to instant messages. Or schedule emails to go out an hour later. If it’s a physical interruption: ask them to come back in a few minutes or at a later time. Sometimes simple communication is all you need.

Dealing with constant interruptions? Reclaim your focus by setting clear boundaries with coworkers. Communicate your need for uninterrupted time and agree on designated discussion periods. Use visual cues like headphones to signal when you're in focus mode. Schedule regular check-ins to handle queries in batches, reducing unplanned disruptions.

Effective communication is essential in managing interruptions, and this is where setting clear work boundaries comes into play. Start by acknowledging your coworker’s concerns, then gently reiterate the purpose of the focused time that’s being disrupted. Suggest a more suitable time for the discussion, ensuring they feel heard while protecting your workflow. During a scheduled 1:1 meeting, practice radical candor by sharing both positive feedback and constructive observations. Highlight what’s been working well, acknowledge the impact of interruptions, and collaboratively explore respectful solutions to minimize them. This approach fosters a positive relationship while maintaining your productivity.

I believe in being honest, therefore I would address the issue directly. I would set a time aside to return the coworker calls if the issue is not urgent.

Protecting Your Focus While Keeping Work Relationships Strong! Here's what worked magic for me: "Hey! I love our work chats, but I've noticed I'm most productive during morning hours. Could we schedule a dedicated catch-up at 2 PM instead? That way, you'll have my complete attention! " Pro tip: Block your focus time on your calendar as "Deep Work" and use status messages like: "In focus mode until 11 AM - catch you at our 2 PM sync!" Remember: It's not about avoiding people, it's about being fully present when you do connect! Bonus: People actually appreciate your honesty and clear boundaries.

The first thing would be to have a candid but sensitive conversation with your peer. You also may need to set boundaries for yourself. If possible work in a different location when focus is critical. Know your distraction triggers and manage them.

Atenção é necessária e sempre deve ser dada. Porém, há pessoas que não tem limites e às vezes impulsivas. Neste caso específico, chame-o para uma conversa aberta, estabeleça algumas regras, e o conduza de perto nas demandas. Logo logo ele andará sozinho, pois enxergará o quanto estava travando o processo.