Module seven attention zones model. There are four different attention zones reactive, proactive, distracted and wasteful. These zones were introduced in an earlier module. The attention zone determines productivity as well as personal stress levels. Attention management allows people to move out of stressful or unproductive zones and manage their time wisely. Reactive zone many people particularly managers spend most of their time in the reactive zone.

Those in the reactive zone spend their time putting out fires and handling urgent needs. The tasks are important, but they demand time that takes away from scheduled projects. An example would be finding someone to fill in for a sick employee. The task is important and demands immediate attention, but it does not help the manager meet any of his or her goals or deadlines. Occasionally, a crisis will need to be handled but attending to one crisis after another should never be a way of life in order for people to move at The reactive zone and stay in the proactive zone they need to address the time they spend in the distracted and wasteful zones. Proactive zone.

The proactive zone is where everyone wants to work. People in the zone work strategically, they are able to plan and achieve goals. Spending time in the proactive zone reduces the amount of time that is spent in the reactive zone because contingency plans will be in place. The proactive zone maintains relationships, budgets, systems and personal well being. Review your goals and plan accordingly at the beginning of each week to improve performance in the proactive zone. Distracted zone.

The distracted zone takes up far too much time. Things in this zone seem urgent but they are not really important. The distracted zone occurs when other people monopolize your attention. Things like emails and phone calls fall under the distracted zone. Important time and energy is given to other people's priorities rather In personal goals, leaving the distracted zone, turn off email alerts, emails do not always need to be answered immediately. Constant email alerts are distractions that take people out of the proactive zone.

Create a time block schedule, schedule time to return phone calls and emails and build relationships. work on projects during the time set aside for them and do not allow yourself to become distracted by other people. set boundaries. Stick to the schedule do not allow people to draw you away unless it is a real emergency. Be firm and people will learn to respect your schedule. wasteful zone.

The wasteful zone is exactly what it sounds like the zone where people waste time. activities that waste time include checking personal email, looking at social media sites, online videos and other activities that are not productive. It is important to note that people need to occasionally decompress when times To relax and regroup is not included in a person's schedule more time will be spent in the wasteful zone leaving the wasteful zone, schedule personal time. Take the time to relax, meditate, eat and socialize. It is not possible to continually focus on a single task so schedule breaks and take them. It will increase productivity and prevent the need for mind numbing activities.

Limit temptation internet junkie should turn off their connection when they do not need the internet if possible. Turn off mobile devices when working and indulge pastimes only when appropriate. Remind yourself that the wasteful zone keeps you out of the proactive zone and away from your goals.