The Practice of Groundedness: A Transformative Path to Success That Feeds--Not Crushes--Your Soul

by Brad Stulberg

Getting upstream of tempting distractions is a two-step process: identify times when you want to engage in deep-focus work or fully present play and connection, and then eliminate distractions prior to those times. Block off periods on your calendar for full presence, or make them part of your regular routine. Knowing what you are going to do in these blocks ahead of time is key. Without this step of planning and intentionality, distraction too easily encroaches upon presence. Have a plan in place for where you’ll store your digital devices and how you’ll eliminate other distractions. Remember that even the mere sight of some digital devices, like phones or computers, can interfere with your ability to be present. Turning them off may not be enough. Out of sight really is out of mind. I’ve had clients who leave their phones and computers in their basements, or who leave their offices to go to cafés without wireless connections. This step is especially important if you are prone to checking your email, Likes, retweets, or comments on social media. Remember, swiping for these notifications is akin to playing an existential slot machine. It is hard to pay attention to anything but gambling when you are in a casino. Don’t be surprised if you feel worse before you feel better. If you are accustomed to being tethered to your digital devices all the time, then leaving them behind may be stressful. Start with small chunks of distraction-free time, even twenty minutes, and graduall...