on an external monitor doesn't mean anything. Use technology to your advantage . In one of my last jobs, the biggest responsibility I had was to stay on top of my inbox and fire off responses to critical questions when I had to. With a decent smartphone, I could do that just about anywhere, and anything I needed to get to a computer for I could always push off a few hours. Don't be afraid to work remotely -- use your phone or tablet to your advantage to check in and stay engaged enough that you look like you're working. More than once I was "working from museum" or "working from pub" when I was supposed to be "working from home" thanks to my smartphone and remote desktop. Again, don't abuse it and tread carefully -- the moment you get busted is the moment you ruin it, possibly for everyone. With practice you'll find that you have more time in your day, because you've mastered the subtle art of saying "no" even when you don't have wiggle room to say no. Your coworkers will come to understand that you're busy, but if you do this right (by which we mean with flexibility and a smile on your face) they'll understand and only approach you when they really need your help (and those things should go on the to-do list.) Bonus: you'll always be busy , but you won't always be stressed , which is a huge bonus. Be An Email-Responding