One of the techniques to avoid distraction during tedious tasks is to reimagine them. Commercially produced distractions, like television or social media, use slot machine-like variable rewards to keep us engaged with a constant stream of newness. But we can use the same techniques to make any task more pleasurable and compelling. We can use the same neural hardwiring that keeps us hooked to media to keep us engaged in an otherwise unpleasant task. Given what we know about our propensity for distraction when we’re uncomfortable, reimagining difficult work as fun could prove incredibly empowering. Imagine how powerful you’d feel if you were able to transform the hard, focused work you have to do into something that felt like play. Fun and play don’t have to make us feel good per se; rather they can be used as tools to keep us focused. Instead of running away from our pain or using rewards like prizes and treats to help motivate us, the idea is to pay such close attention that you find new challenges you didn’t see before. Those new challenges provide the novelty to engage our attention and maintain focus when tempted by distraction. #Indistractable #Productivity #Empowerment #Engagement #Traction …see more