“By removing every object of attention that's potentially more stimulating and attractive than what you intend to do, you give your brain no choice but to work on that task.”

Why it was said

Bailey writes this in his discussion of distraction, where he argues that the brain is drawn to novelty and stimulation, and that the most reliable way to focus is to deal with distractions before they appear rather than resist them once they do.

What it actually means

Most focus advice is about trying harder. Bailey's is about removing options. If the phone, the inbox and the news are within reach, the work competes with them every minute, and the more stimulating option tends to win. Take them away and the task becomes the most interesting thing available, almost by default. The approach works because it relies on an arrangement decided once, rather than on resisting the same temptation dozens of times.

How to use it

1. 1Before a focus block, put your phone in another room and close email entirely rather than minimising it.
2. 2Use a website blocker during the hours you plan for your most demanding work.
3. 3If you work in an open office, agree on a visible signal, such as headphones, that means 'not now'.