While the primary goal of technology is to make tackling tasks quicker and easier, e-mail, social media, and smart devices can be real time-wasters.  When you are feeling overwhelmed or need to get some serious work done, designate an hour or so to being free of tech distractions.  Ignore your e-mail and turn off your phone.  Not only will this help you avoid distractions, but the lack of distraction will allow you to focus more easily and for a much longer period of time.  You may even choose to adopt this as a long-term work strategy.  For instance, if you’re able, check your e-mail only three times a day: morning, afternoon, and evening.