Whether you are doing your accounts, trying to study, working through a project, or simply reading a book, you do not want to be disturbed. Sadly, noise pollution can be so off-putting when you want to just focus on something. This means that you have to accept that noise distractions are commonplace, but you can also find ways to cut them out. From children playing in the other room to a bit of work going on in the street outside, here are some of the easiest ways to cut out audio distractions.
Get rid of digital distractions
Unless you are actively using one, turn off all digital distractions. Your phone, your TV, your music, and especially devices like smartphones and tablets. Removing these audible distractions can give you a chance to block out other distractions. You might be surprised, but sometimes those small distractions can be opening your ears to other irritants polluting the air.
Cut out the distraction
Of course, you might find that you can use some instrumental music to dull out the other noise. Put in some headphones and start listening to some music. Avoid anything with lyrics, though. If you are short on ideas, YouTube has many ‘lofi’ playlists which are low, melodic tunes that simply exist in the background. Excellent for studying, and does not need you to keep changing the song or checking in.
Find an insulated spot
If you are lucky enough to have a room in your home with proper insulation around the doors, windows, and walls, go there. You might find that simply moving to a different part of your home to do your thinking, working, and/or studying can be enough. When you are not in your ‘usual’ place it tends to pass on the hint to others at home that you want to be left alone and that you do not want to be disturbed while you take on whatever task awaits.
Stop and start again
If you are distracted otherwise, you might find that a good way to start again is to stop for 5-10 minutes. Taking a quick break can do two things. One, it can stop you from thinking about distractions. Two, it can make you more likely to accept the presence of the distraction. When you do that it is much easier to start working through the topic or task at hand whilst being aware of the distraction. When you stop and start again, though, it can make it easier for that distraction to blend into the background.