How to Block Distractions in the Workplace Through Attention Management

AUSTIN, Texas - To close out the 2025 Women's Forum in Austin, Texas, keynote speaker Maura Thomas, a speaker, trainer, writer and consultant in the areas of productivity, attention and effectiveness, spoke on the difference between time management and attention management. Thomas said every technology company and social media platform, is actively working to steal your attention and create distractions in our lives.

“The thing that the world is taking from you is your attention. The cost that it leaves behind is a distraction tax. You pay it over and over every day and the cost compounds,” she said. “This tax has reshaped how you think and what you do. Even a small distraction can slash your working memory by 50 percent or more. The cost of distraction is estimated to be over half a million dollars a year.”

Thomas shared these three challenges that contribute to a deficiency in attention management and ways to work against the odds in allowing distractions to win:

1.) Environment: It’s loud, noisy and distracting. People think this is just the way that it is. Create an environment where we get our work done at work. You have to create a work environment where you can actually do the work that you need to think about. Even if you work in the field, the relationships with your customers are the most important aspects of your job. You have more control over your environment than you think. 

2.) Technology: Technology exists for our convenience. We’ve become so accustomed to having our phones on us, you can leave it on, but put it on silent or do not disturb. Notifications just distract you all day long.

3.) Habits: Most people who use technology today have a habit of distraction and that was created on purpose. The first step in changing any habit is awareness. You can’t change any habit that you don’t know you have. 

Attendees helped the Texas Professional Women in Pest Management (PWIPM) chapter put together more than 200 hygiene bags for Dress for Success Austin Wednesday morning. The organization helps unemployed women achieve economic independence through a networking, professional attire and the development tools to help them thrive in work and in life.