The art of focus
Eliminating Distractions for Peak Performance.
1. Opening Insight: Focus is the Foundation
“Focus is like a muscle; the more you use it, the stronger it gets.”
Now, let’s get into something that, at least, should seriously change your life - focus.
The ability to really focus in a world full of distractions is kinda like having superpowers. It is not about crossing a number of things off your list; it is about how to enhance your life.
When you can begin to focus, you will be able to begin accomplishing goals you’ve only dreamed about. But, yeah, focus isn’t easy.
So, let's break it down and make it simple.
2. The Truth: How Distractions Make Us Slow Down
The thing with distractions is they are not minor breaks; they are roadblocks.
Every time you get pulled away by some notification or message, it's like taking a step backward.
Actually, it takes minutes for your head to get back in the game each time.
With so many things fighting for our attention, it's tough to keep on track.
Still, if you want to meet your goals, you’ll have to cut these distractions down.
3. The Foundation: 3 Easy Keys to Build Focus
Now, if you want to get good at focusing, there are only three things you want to get nailed down. Think of these as your “focus keys”:
Environment: Go ahead and take care of the space around you. Keep it clean, keep it simple. The less stuff you have cluttering up space around you, the less your mind will get pulled away. If possible, silence your phone or turn notifications off so you can stay locked in.
Mindset: Focus isn’t something that would or should happen automatically. It's a skill, like any other, you need to invest time into it, even if it’s just several minutes a day: deep breaths, a quick meditation, at least time taken to clear your mind.
Energy: This is big - focus needs fuel. That means good sleep, eating right, and moving around so as not to run out of energy. When you’re running on empty, it’s hard to be sharp no matter how much you may want to.
4. Real-Life Tips: Crush Distractions and Improve Your Focus
So, how do we kick distractions to the curb? Give these ideas a try:
Digital Detox: This is a bit tough, but it works. Turn off your notifications that you don't really need. If you are working, keep your phone out of sight. Each little ping and each pop-up takes you away from what you are doing.
Time Blocking: This is where you choose blocks of time in your day just for focus. Even if it's 30 minutes, set it aside. Treat it as an appointment that you won't miss.
Single-tasking: You know that multitasking everyone speaks of? It actually slows you down. Try putting all of your attention on just one thing and then move on to the next. This will allow you to be more productive and feel good doing it.
5. The Focus Experiment: A Simple Challenge
This week, I want to issue a challenge. It's called the Focus Experiment:
Choose an Hour: Pick one hour from your day to work uninterrupted; that'll be your "focus time."
Reflect and Record: After that hour, reflect on what worked and what didn't. Did you feel more focused? What got in your way? Jot it down. You'll start to notice patterns and figure out what works best in helping you focus.
It's just a quick way to see what it feels like to focus and how you can strengthen that.
6. Final Thought: Focus Builds Your Legacy
Here’s the bottom line: Focus isn’t about today’s to-do list; it’s life-building.
Imagine you being able to stay focused on the big things in your life - the things that matter most to you.
People who can focus on what matters are the ones who make incredible things happen. They get to live life on their own terms.
Protect your focus. Let it lead you to something great.
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Take care of yourself. I’m rooting for you.
Much love,
Building discipline 💪
being a writer is all about focus 🫡