Unplugging for productivity

Stepcase lifehack has a nice story on how to avoid the continuous electronic distractions: unplug your online life. The idea is generally to step away from the computer and stick to pen-and-paper tools. I don't go to those extremes, but here are some favorites of mine for increasing productivity when working morale is low:

• close your e-mail program
• close the office door
• close all applications you are not using on your computer
• do one thing offline: keep an offline to-do list and check each task when its done
• drink high-quality coffee while working
• do not use the computer mouse - the keyboard keeps your attention at work

Try it out the next time you are noticing that your are sliding away from where focus should be; it helps for me at least!