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I talk about focus all the time. Focus, focus, focus. Focus means “the center of interest or activity,” a “focal point” or “paying particular attention to something.” But how do you actually, technically and efficiently focus? Here are six tips to help you do a better job of focusing.
- Get rid of the noise. Clear your head. This means that you need to disconnect from your phone, tablet and laptop for a little bit every day. Emails, streams and social media are very distracting. And when you are connected, turn off the alerts, bleeps, dings and other sounds while you are working. It isn’t necessary to check your email every time one arrives; it can wait a couple of hours.
- Focused people always have a plan they follow. This includes a daily plan of things that need to get done, a weekly plan, a monthly plan and a set of 90-day goals that align with an annual plan (and beyond). Structure is good. If you stray from the plan but have it mapped out, it will be easy to get back on the right path.
- Speaking of structure – have a routine. Actually block off time for things like reviewing and returning emails, walking the halls to greet employees, actual work time and lunch. Try to avoid death by meeting; it is hard to get anything done when you go from one meeting to another. Your routine should also include taking care of yourself. Commit to a time of day that you will work out and block it off on your calendar.
- Reward yourself. This is really important. What will you do for yourself when you remain focused and get things done? Your focus will allow you to be more efficient and productive, so make sure to reward yourself with some sort of compensation.
- Live in the moment. Life happens. Appreciate what is going on in your world. Be flexible so that you can adapt to changes as necessary. Be grateful for all that you have; and have fun!
- Finally, be okay with failure. Mistakes will happen. Guaranteed. Failure happens. Embrace it and learn from it, then move on and become better. Failure isn’t the end of the world, but rather an opportunity to reflect, readapt and refocus!
How do you stay focused? We would love to know your top tips, so please share your ideas with us.
By Blair Koch
