Reduce email interruptions
Unless you’re expecting an urgent message, resist the impulse to constantly check your in-box. Instead of allowing incoming notes to keep breaking your concentration, check email only once every 30 to 60 minutes. Also consider eliminating desktop email notifications to limit distractions.

Schedule a daily check-in
You want to stay in touch with your child (or caregiver), but constant text messages and calls can make it difficult to immerse yourself in your work. Set a time every day—say, 3 p.m.—to talk for five minutes and catch up. Other phone calls should be limited to emergencies.

Limit drop-in visits
If colleagues regularly stop by to chat when you’re on deadline, send them the message that you’re busy by saying something like “I have five minutes. What can I do for you?” If it’s your boss who drops by, let her know what you’re working on and ask which task should take priority.

Wear headphones
When people see you’re wearing headphones, they’ll understand you’re trying to block out distractions and be less likely to interrupt you. You’ll end small talk about the weather. So set the volume to low and listen to your favorite tunes, or just use the headphones as a handy prop.