How often do you have a plan in your mind about how your day will go that gets turned upside down because of a few unplanned things (read: time-sucking stuff)? The key is having a plan that is flexible AND doable no matter what bright, shiny thing floats by. 

A few things to consider…

1. Route your errands on a map.

I know it might sound a bit OCD to do this, but who cares??? Plot your errands based on location so you can keep a few more minutes to yourself (and keep more gas in your car). Does it really makes sense to go through your town from end to end without considering all your stops?

2.  Keep an open slot in your schedule for bright, shiny things.

Why fight the time-sucks, especially the fun ones? After all, they keep the stress at bay. If you make time for them, then you can actually stick to your productive plan knowing that you’ll be goofing off soon enough. Angry Birds, anyone?

3. Pitch your mental notes.

Ever notice how mental notes get lost and then re-surface after your deadline has passed? Unless you’re trying to test the elasticity of your brain, make written notes and lists instead. Go for a short list of things that’s reasonable to get done. 

Try these simple steps to hook your fingers in the nose of time. Reel it back in. Off you go.