I write about focus about once a month. But I don’t think I’ve written about how to truly focus. Focus is an integral part of getting anything done. To single-mindedly work on a task to completion. To work only on that task and not grasp at shiny objects for as long as it takes to complete that task. For some tasks your focus can be narrowed to just seconds. But for others, if a task requires many steps, your focus must last and last…
For example, if I’m writing a blog post (like this one!) I must gather my thoughts, decide on how I want to approach a topic, form an outline with the progression of thoughts, actually write the article and make sure it’s in some semblance of grammatically correct English. Writing an article can take up to an hour, which is a long time to focus.
These days, it’s increasingly difficult to focus. Our phones are always nearby – the most attractive productivity-busters around. The news is always on and it’s hardly ever good. Noise is everywhere.
So, how can we get things done?
- Decide what you want to get done
- Break it down into manageable chunks
- Remove distractions
- Clear your mind
- Do it.
- Reward!
Decide what you want to get done
For example – me writing that article. Or, it could be cleaning out a closet. Making dinner. Decide on the task.
Break it down
Some tasks don’t really require dividing up. Like making dinner.
Others will lend themselves to tackling in pieces. Like writing that article: Decide on a topic; Create an outline; Write notes on outline items; Write the article – section by section; Proofread and edit; Publish.
Or organizing a closet: Divide up that closet and go at it one section at a time.
Remove Distractions
This can be wrenching for some people because it requires turning off notifications and not looking at your phone. If that’s hard for you, turn off your phone. If you can’t do that, put it in a different room while you get your task done.
Yes, it’s hard. But it’s not forever. That’s why we break tasks down into manageable pieces.
Now put the dogs in another room too, or in crates if you use them. Because you’ll be tempted to play with them.
Clear your mind
For some tasks, this may not be necessary. If you’re trying to create, you will want to start with a clear mind. So close your eyes for a few seconds and think “nothing.” If that’s not possible, try a short Guided Meditation (like the Garden walk). Open your eyes and …
Do it
Get that task done. Or the section you’re working on. Remember that this is not a prolonged period of time that you’ll be without your Insta notifications or your playmate (dog). Just as long as it takes to get that section of your larger task done.
Also remember that the more you practice this sequence and remind yourself how to truly focus, the easier it will become.
Reward
Go play with your dog.