When the log showed that the computer had spent 51% or more of its time in “system” mode (not doing work, but shifting from task to task) the computer was said to be “thrashing.” I asked my boss, a career programmer from the early days, how that term came about. He said it referred to the old disk-changing hardware–when the computer was receiving a high percentage of commands to load / unload, the constant mechanical reversal and initiation of tasks would cause the disk drives to physically shake and shudder.

Get the analogy?

I enjoyed today’s Boston Globe piece on stay-at-home dads. I actually changed careers (from accounting) and started a business (writing/ communications)at home while caring for two daughters.

I look forward to reading “Distracted” — and I’d like to offer seven few tips for getting focused:

- Develop a deep breathing exercise routine, twice daily, to relieve stress and re-charge your batteries.
- Practice mindful meditation to focus energies on being “present” and quieting distractions.
- Take blocks of time during your day to concentrate on singular activities, such as answering e-mails or making or returning phone calls.
- Plan out each day and break down to-dos from highest to lowest priorities, and steer work accordingly.
- Respect others’ time and insist that they respect yours.
- Don’t answer the phone during family dinners!
- Pray!