If you missed Part I and want to get caught up, click here.

Roadblock #3: I get easily distracted when I read.
Distractions are a dime a dozen these days, especially in busy offices where phones, emails and other people are vying for your attention.

Consider these unblocking ideas:

• Zero-in on the things that distract you the most while reading and find ways to get rid of them. Just becoming aware of them is a great start.
• Consider reading in a place where you can't be found, such as in an empty conference room, a traveling colleagues office or an empty cafeteria on off hours.
• Turn off the TV! It is too visual, auditory and tempting not to watch.
• Learn how to read faster - speed forces you to concentrate!

Roadblock #4: I feel possessed to read everything, anything less feels like cheating.

Consider these unblocking ideas:

• Consider reading only those things of value - to you. Just because it is dumped on your desk or sent to you in the mail, doesn't mean you will find value in it.
• Look for the writer's outline in the factual material you read. (Hint: look at the first sentences of paragraphs!)
• Understand that all words are not created equal in the reading process. Some are more important than others. They are typically 3 letters in length, or longer. Start training your eyes to find and read only them.

Till next month, here's to making positive progress with your reading workload!

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Conquering Information Overload (One-Day Workshop)
Date: Thursday, March 4, 2004
Time: 8:30am to 4pm
Location: The Marine Institute for Technology and Graduate Studies (MITAGS) in Linthicum Heights, MD
You can take it for yourself, or scout it out for others in your organization. You are guaranteed to feel less stressed and more confident in your ability to handle any information that comes your way! Sign up today!