Assert control in your work environment

Hours of distraction exacerbate a person's feelings of being unproductive and helpless. Reassert control of your work environment by switching off distractions, establishing quiet times and spaces where you won't be interrupted. Be proactive about meetings' purpose and agendas so that yours and other people's time isn't wasted. Set boundaries around your workload and practice saying 'no' when appropriate. Find a mentor to assist with advice. Starting small, builds confidence.

• Learn to control your work environment with simple strategies.
• Minimize distractions  switch off your device or apps for set amounts of time.
• Set boundaries e.g. establish quiet times/spaces where you won't be interrupted.
• Be proactive about meetings  determine purpose and agenda, and manage time allocations.
• Set boundaries around your workload  practice saying "no" when appropriate.
• Find a mentor to assist with advice.
• Break down challenges  small successes will help build confidence.