Spot on. We see this a lot in coding activities. Many tasks are usually more complicated than for example "import this file into database, use the imported data to produce the histogram" ... there's bound to be plenty of "collateral" shyte en route. Non-programmers don't usually understand this.
So how to overcome this?
There's no other way than to cognitively "bring to front" the end goal every time you hit a task hurdle that threatens your concentration or that lets you succumb to distraction. But it takes practice to learn that you are in the process of beginning the "shirk move" ... watch out for this. Can you blame yourself when all you've done your whole life subconsciously toggle to other tasks when the going gets tough. Blame evolution for this.
So two things:
1. Know upfront the discrete sub-task/destination you are hoping to achieve for a given finite stretch of time, achieve it and call it the day; and
2. Kak on yourself solid! for being distracted during a tough spell ... speak it out to yourself by enunciating that you are being distracted, mofo. If someone else is doing the disturbing, find a quiet place next time. (Working with kids in the house can be painful).
So how to overcome this?
There's no other way than to cognitively "bring to front" the end goal every time you hit a task hurdle that threatens your concentration or that lets you succumb to distraction. But it takes practice to learn that you are in the process of beginning the "shirk move" ... watch out for this. Can you blame yourself when all you've done your whole life subconsciously toggle to other tasks when the going gets tough. Blame evolution for this.
So two things:
1. Know upfront the discrete sub-task/destination you are hoping to achieve for a given finite stretch of time, achieve it and call it the day; and
2. Kak on yourself solid! for being distracted during a tough spell ... speak it out to yourself by enunciating that you are being distracted, mofo. If someone else is doing the disturbing, find a quiet place next time. (Working with kids in the house can be painful).
That's why I am here!