We live in a world built for distraction. We receive literally thousands of messages, sounds and images every single day trying to steal our focus from what is important and productive.
Being able to focus in today’s world is, almost quite literally, a superpower!
Those that can master the art of focus will find a pathway to greater productivity, greater influence, and greater success.
7 Ways to Stay Focused in Your Work
1. Turn off notifications
We have built in distractions that are all around us – the notifications we have on our phones, tablets and computers.
Turn them off when you need to focus.
All of them!
We have built in distractions that are all around us.#BeMoreDoMore Click To Tweet2. Create a clean environment
Create an environment where you can only really see one thing – the thing you need to focus on.
Remove paper piles and clutter on your desk. Close unnecessary tabs on the computer. Put your phone away. Close your door.
Clear anything that might distract.
Create an environment where you can only really see one thing – the thing you need to focus on.#BeMoreDoMore Click To Tweet3. Use tools to help you
Look up the “Pomodoro Technique” as a method of focus-time management, and then find a tool to help you apply this method.
A simple app that I use is called BeFocused Pro, but there are many apps available.
Search “Pomodoro app” to find options.
4. Minimize your to-do list
Identify 1 to 3 top priorities for your day.
Focus on these first (“first things first”) and complete them as much as possible before moving to anything else.
Try to add items on your to-do list that only you can do and forget about the rest (delete, delegate or defer).
Identify 1 to 3 top priorities for your day.Focus on these first ("first things first") and complete them as much as possible before moving to anything else.#BeMoreDoMore Click To Tweet5. Communicate with your team
Let your team know when you are trying to stay focused. You might even create a system that signals that you are not available (for example, when your door is closed, they know not to bother you except in an emergency).
This also provides a good example to your team and encourages them to do the same.
6. Schedule time for focused work
Either you control your schedule or everyone and everything else does. And if it’s not on your calendar, it’s probably not a priority.
Just like any meeting designed to accomplish something important, block off specific time every week for focused work.
7. Take care of yourself
Our physical, mental and emotional condition plays a huge role in our ability to focus.
Eat right. Exercise. Get your sleep.
Establish healthy routines of self-care that help you physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Take care of yourself!
Our physical, mental and emotional condition plays a huge role in our ability to focus.Eat right. Exercise. Get your sleep.#BeMoreDoMore Click To TweetHow do you stay focused? Please share in comments below.
