It is ironic the protagonist in the article "An Inhibitor of High Performance" is also named John. I have had hectic days like this. Al clearly points out that days like these are of our own making. This article along with the post on "Focus" have severly pointed out how much interruptions and interrupting thoughts impede performance, productivity and create a chaotic day. I have since gone through great lengths to practice focusing on the moment and the task at hand. It isn't easy because each task is related to another task or project and it is all to easy to drift into thinking about those areas. 
 
Since I have been practicing focusing only on the immediate task of the moment,I have experienced less anxiety and stress in addition to getting more accomplished in less time.