- Headphones: This is the universal “do not disturb” sign. Noise-canceling headphones are an excellent investment, both for blocking out household sounds (laundry, kids, a partner’s phone call) and for signaling to others that you are in deep-work mode.
- White Noise: A white noise machine or app can be incredibly effective at drowning out inconsistent, sudden noises by creating a stable, constant sound “floor.”
- Set Boundaries: Have a clear conversation with anyone you live with about your work hours and what “work” looks like. Explain that even if you’re physically present, you are mentally “at the office.”
If you don’t have a door, you must rely on other cues.








