The noise that affects me the most is external noise. Being in a cold room or hearing a sneeze or cough can get me distracted pretty easily. Even lights flickering or the sound of someones breathing can throw me off track. To ensure that I stay focused, I will have to take notes because then I am seeking something that I can pull out of a message. Keeping my eyes on the speaker at all times typically ensures that I am paying attention and actively listening.
I think a cold room would help me focus. I never thought about that being a problem but I understand how that could happen.
External noise also affects me more than internal noise does. When people bounce their legs, especially upstairs because it shakes the whole room, I get distracted so easily. It's very hard for me to refocus after external noise causes me to lose my focus, but I agree that taking notes helps to regain that focus and gain meaning of the message.
Just like you, external noise easily grabs my attention whether speaking or listening. Finding something productive like taking notes to give your attention to is smart so you aren't just dilly dallying during that time. Eye contact is often very effective for me as well.
I can definitely relate to this Christian. If I am cold that is all I can think about. Notes probably would help but it's just not fun taking notes, but I'll give it a shot.