Top Tips For Staying Focused
AS PART OF OUR PRODUCTIVITY SERIES, WE’RE DIVING INTO THE TOOLS AND METHODS WE’VE SEEN WORK BEST FOR WOMEN IN ALL STAGES OF LIFE. TODAY WE’RE HONING IN ON OUR TOP TIPS FOR STAYING FOCUSED IN ORDER TO BE YOUR MOST PRODUCTIVE AND ACCOMPLISHED SELF.
set yourself up for success and remember that staying focused starts before the task:
Set up a routine that allows you to prep the day or evening before your work begins. Aim to write down your top 2-3 priorities while identifying your energy for these tasks whether you want to tackle them in the AM or PM. Notice which tasks are the easiest or hardest and add them to your calendar when you’ll feel the most engaged and energized to address them. Of course, block time with your partner, caregiver or colleague where needed to support completion. Commit to where you would like to work whether it is your home office (make sure its clean), a community workspace or local coffee shop. Be sure to reserve your space if needed and remember how much your environment can impact your productivity. Pack your bag or prep your workspace in advance with your computer, calendar, charger, files, tea, lunch and snacks. Lay out your clothes or spend time unwinding with a book, bath or journal. Notice what it feels like when you take this time to set yourself up for success. Maybe you feel more ease, effortlessness or clarity before you fully dive into your tasks.
begin your day with some (very) quick breath work
Set and settle into your space. Remove and put away any devices that aren’t necessary for your task. Perhaps put your phone out of eyesight and turn your email off so those unread messages don’t become a distraction.
Do a quick breath work exercise. We love the 4-7-8 method as it helps calm the mind and relax the muscles. Here’s how to do it.
Breathe in through your nose for a count of four, feel your belly expanding.
Hold that breath for a count of seven.
Blow out through your mouth for a slow count of eight. If you can, put your tongue behind your bottom teeth and making a whooshing sound as you exhale.
celebrate your success
When we support our focus with simple strategies to streamline our time we give ourselves time back in our day to get things done. When you complete a task, check it off and truly celebrate your success. We don’t celebrate our wins enough. Big or small, take a moment to recognize your accomplishments. This will fuel your future focus and success!
MEET THE AUTHOR
anne-marie thompson
Anne-Marie is Wellness Coach of mindset, mindfulness and movement. Anne-Marie helps fellow women and moms navigate the shift of life transitions by supporting them to redefine a sense of self because women deserve to reclaim their joy, living each day with clarity, confidence, purpose and ease.