What’s Distracting You?

As I write this, my thoughts are competing with the sounds of a chainsaw in the distance, the pain in my knee, the text I need to answer and wondering about lunch. Now I see and hear the indicator that I have an incoming email from a possible client. With all these things competing for my attention it is a wonder I get anything done at all. Time management is usually not the problem. The real issue is how I am managing my attention.

Focus

Here are few things that help focus your attention:

Avoid multi-tasking – focus on one thing at a time then go to the next
Prioritize your day – start your day by writing down the three most important things you need to accomplish
Map your daily energy levels – identity the time of day you are most alert and guard this time for high mental work (writing, creating…)
Schedule 25-minute blocks to hyper focus on a task – humans focus best for 25 minutes…be sure to take a 5-minute break to reset (https://www.pomodorotechnique.com)
Silence all alerts on your phone and computer – consider eliminating all alerts but the most important
Keep a notepad handy – when errant thoughts and reminders come to mind write them down then quickly refocus
Be present in a conversation or meeting – make eye contact and ask clarifying questions to keep yourself engaged and communicate interest
Write down something to look forward to at the end of the day – you will be surprised how this propels you forward when grinding it out

What has helped you avoid distraction and remain focused?

More Insights from Lynn

Are You Winging It As A Leader? Here’s What You’re Missing

There is nothing wrong with being flexible. In fact, flexibility is an important leadership skill. But flexibility without intentionality can quickly become reactivity. Intentionality means you have thought about what matters, where you want to go and how you want to respond along the way. And it benefits you in ways that go far beyond business.

Want To Become A Better Listener? Try Using Your E.A.R.

That conversation reminded me that listening isn't simply waiting for your turn to talk. Great communicators make the other person feel understood before trying to be understood themselves. And they are secure enough to let others come up with the right answer. One of the simplest ways I've found to improve listening is an acronym that is easy to remember: E.A.R.

The Company You Keep Is Creating the Leader You Become

Most of us believe we're independent thinkers. We assume our attitudes are our own…our standards are our own…even our habits are our own. But think about the conversations you hear every day…the people you laugh with…the people who constantly complain…the coworker who drains you…the one who encourages you.

5.0 ratings from clients

Trusted by professionals across many niches