In an increasingly fast-paced and distraction-laden world, the ability to focus has become a valuable skill, sought after by individuals striving to maximize their productivity and achieve their goals. Maintaining focus can be a formidable challenge for individuals striving to achieve their goals and aspirations.
We asked entrepreneurs and business owners how they focus and here are their responses.
#1- Two Tactics
First, I'll schedule 2 really early starts in the office each week. Say 6 or 7am. This allows me to get to the office and work for a few good hours before anyone else/co-workers arrive. This helps me get in the zone and I start the day focused. Another tactic is to work out, either cardio or weights. This resets my mind and gives me an endorphin/dopamine release that naturally helps me stay focused. I'll usually work out at lunch, refueling me physically and mentally for a solid afternoon of productive work. Sometimes I'll put on meditation music or more specifically Low hertz frequencies. It aids in achieving deeper states of meditation and mindfulness.
Thanks to Marshall Thurlow, Orion Marketing!
#2- By listening to “Brown Noise”
One of the greatest things I learned through my training and my own experience with focus is closing down your senses. The best way I've found to do this is to listen to Brown Noise while I'm working and need to focus for long periods. It blocks out external noise while also allowing your brainwave pattern to drop to alpha and theta levels, which are connected to creativity, intuition, and learning – a recipe for focus and getting things done from a place of deep knowing and creativity. You can find free long-form recordings of Brown Noise on YouTube and Spotify.
Thanks to Emma Jane Ritchie, Emma Ritchie Wellness!
#3- By using the Pomodoro technique
As an online business owner, maintaining focus is crucial to my productivity and success. I rely on the Pomodoro Technique, which breaks my work into manageable intervals with short breaks, sustaining my attention. Listening to binaural beats enhances my concentration. Every week, I create and map out a plan of intention, setting clear goals and priorities to direct my actions. This approach allows me to fully commit to my business without feeling overwhelmed.
Thanks to Renae O'Neill
#4- By rigorously prioritizing tasks
As the founder of The Bunch Up, I maintain focus by rigorously prioritizing tasks based on their impact on our long-term vision. I dedicate my mornings to deep work on high-value projects, minimizing distractions by silencing notifications and batching communication. Regular exercise and mindfulness practices keep me energized and clear-headed, while a daily review of our key metrics helps me stay aligned with our overall goals.
Thanks to Chai Bade, The Bunch Up!
#5- By burning goals
Burning goals that you deeply desire to achieve are my secret to everything, particularly daily focus. So every morning, before I start work, I read out my company vision and mission statement, write out my goal, and then set 5 goal achieving actions for the day. This elevates my motivation and mood. I stay focused only on the top goal until it is completed and once completed I move on to the next. If there is a day, where I feel by lunchtime I need a boost. I take my office outside. Working from a different environment can relax and refocus the mind on daily goal-achieving activities. These steps always work for me.
Thanks to Suzana Mihajlovic, Your2Minds!
#6- Turning to the Power Hour
When I am unable to focus, am procrastinating, or feel overwhelmed I turn to the Power Hour. My mind switches into focus mode when I set the timer and have a deadline to work to. I try to get as much done in one hour – sometimes the task gets completed or at least there's been progress made which often gives me the inspiration to follow through to completion.
Thanks to Maria Surace, Intrinsic Marketing!
#6- By setting achievable goals
To maintain high levels of productivity, I prioritize setting clear, achievable goals each day and break these down into specific tasks. I dedicate specific blocks of time to these tasks, using techniques such as the Pomodoro Technique to manage time effectively and keep distractions at bay. Regular breaks are integral, not only to prevent burnout but to sustain concentration and creativity over long periods. Furthermore, I ensure that my workspace is organized to minimize clutter and maximize efficiency, which psychologically helps in maintaining focus.
Thanks to Shaun Bettman, Eden Emerald Mortgages!
#7- By setting clear priorities
To maintain focus amidst the myriad of tasks that come with running a business, I emphasize setting clear priorities. I start each day by identifying my top three goals, ensuring they align with my long-term objectives. This structured approach helps me eliminate distractions and allocate my energy efficiently. For instance, I block out time on my calendar specifically for deep work sessions, where I handle complex tasks without interruption. Also, I practice mindfulness techniques, such as short meditation breaks, which sharpen my focus and reduce stress. By adhering to these strategies, I can stay on track and drive my business toward success with clarity and purpose.
Thanks to Andrew Pickett, Andrew Pickett Law!
#8- Through structured routine and dynamic movement
Focusing, for me, involves a blend of structured routine and dynamic movement, which keeps my mind sharp and creative. I make it a point to move around frequently, whether it’s changing my work environment or taking walks. This physical movement helps refresh my mind and provides new perspectives, which are crucial for tackling complex challenges and generating innovative ideas. I also prioritize regular breaks and mindfulness practices to maintain mental clarity and reduce stress. By balancing a structured schedule with the freedom to move and think creatively.
Thanks to Matej Zeleznik, D-Studio Consulting!
#9- Two ways
For me, this approach is crucial because larger tasks often demand significant focus. With a lengthy to-do list, it's easy to feel distracted, knowing there are pending small tasks. To enhance productivity, I allocate time early in the morning to swiftly handle those quick, low-attention tasks like answering emails. By clearing these off my plate first, I eliminate distractions later when I'm ready to dive into more substantial projects. As part of this, I also ‘batch process', essentially picking one set of tasks and batching them together; for instance, I'll time block to check and answer all emails, then move on to time blocking paying bills. This also means I can focus fully on the task at hand.
Thanks to Michelle Lomas, Chipkie!
#10- Regularly reviewing progress
Regularly checking in on your progress is crucial to maintaining focus and hitting your targets. At Webris, we make it a point to review our goals and performance metrics every week. This isn't just about seeing how far we’ve come; it helps us identify what’s working and what needs tweaking. Staying adaptive keeps us agile and ensures that our strategies remain aligned with our clients' needs. Think of these reviews as your GPS; they show you if you‘re still on the right path or if you need to reroute. This disciplined approach helps keep our team motivated and our projects on track.
Thanks to Cesar Cobo, Webris!
#11- By prioritizing activities and establishing clear goals
Practical focus and complex work techniques have been critical to our success. Prioritizing activities and establishing clear goals are critical in my role to sustain our high standards. We rely significantly on data-driven approaches to make educated judgments. I approach my daily work logically, balancing my time between on-site management, staff training, and client involvement. I begin each day by evaluating the previous day's key performance indicators and creating a clear agenda for myself to improve operational efficiency and keep us on track with our long-term goals.
Thanks to Gal Cohen, JDM Sliding Doors!
#12- Through setting clear goals
Staying focused is key to my success. I set clear goals and made a plan to reach them. Each day, I prioritize my tasks, tackling the most important ones first. I avoid distractions by setting specific times to check emails and social media. Taking short breaks helps me stay fresh and productive. I also make time for exercise and rest, which keeps my mind sharp. By staying organized and sticking to my plan, I can keep my business moving forward and achieve my goals.
Thanks to William Clark, SATX Concrete Contractors!
#13- By breaking down tasks
To maintain focus, I prioritize my tasks and set clear goals. I break down big projects into smaller, manageable steps, which helps me stay organized and motivated. I create a dedicated workspace free from distractions, enabling me to concentrate on my work. I also set specific time blocks for different activities and use tools like timers and calendars to manage my time effectively. Taking short breaks and practicing mindfulness helps me recharge and stay mentally sharp. By staying focused, I am able to make better decisions, stay on track, and achieve my business objectives.
Thanks to Jason Jones, ATX Epoxy Floors!
#14- By making a to-do list
Staying focused is key. I set clear goals and prioritize tasks to keep on track. I make a to-do list each day and tackle the most important items first. Avoiding distractions is crucial, so I limit my time on social media and email during work hours. Taking short breaks helps me stay fresh and maintain my energy. I also delegate tasks when needed, so I can concentrate on what I do best. By staying organized and focused, I can ensure my business grows and thrives.
Thanks to Andrew Wilson, Tulsa Concrete Contractors!
#15- With Meditation
As a yoga therapist trained in meditation techniques, I know how powerful meditation can be for enhancing your focus. Regularly meditating can make it easier to concentrate for long periods of time. It also supports you in a number of other ways that make it easier to focus, such as reducing stress, improving emotional regulation, increasing self-awareness, and improving sleep quality. Even busy professionals can benefit from meditating for just 15 minutes a day.
Thanks to Anna Passalacqua, Breathing Deeply Yoga Therapy!
#16- By breaking big assignments into smaller ones
As a small business owner for focus, I Chop up for easier digestion! Our era is a time of irritable sounds, shorter attention spans, and accelerated time. So it's way too easy for a business owner to feel overwhelmed by tasks, especially big and complex ones. To fight this, I've mapped out a simple solution. While I can't turn off all the distracting notifications (after all, they put food on my table), I can break down big assignments into smaller, more manageable parts and tackle them one by one. Yoga also helps!
Thanks to George Pennisi, Brisbane Tree Removal!
#17- By maintaining a consistent routine
I focus by maintaining a consistent routine. I set aside specific hours in the day for specific tasks so that I do not get distracted. I keep a list of things to do each day, and I ensure that I'm ranking each task from most important to least important. When I've completed a task, I make sure to check it off as complete. Each day, I also dedicate time to review our goals, assess project progress, and ensure our team shares our vision. This habit provides steady guidance amidst the chaos of entrepreneurship, fostering trust and accountability. By staying true to our foundation of adventure and innovation,
Thanks to Marc Bjerring, Spivo!
#18- By setting clear goals
At ShipSage, we stay focused by setting clear goals and sticking to them. We kick off by defining specific, measurable targets. I make sure everyone on the team knows these goals and understands their part in hitting them. We use project management tools to keep track and stay organized. Regular check-ins and open chats help us stay on track and quickly tackle any distractions.
Thanks to Ben Pu, ShipSage!
#19- Through a digital detox
I’ve had to develop some solid strategies to keep my focus sharp amidst the chaos. Mindful productivity: I start my day with mindfulness exercises, which help clear my mind and set a focused intention for the day. Digital detox: I’ve learned to tame the tech distraction beast. Setting specific times for checking emails and social media, and using tools like website blockers, has drastically improved my ability to concentrate on the task at hand. It’s all about creating boundaries with your digital devices. Purpose-driven focus: Having a clear sense of purpose is my North Star.
Thanks to Peter Murphy Lewis, Strategic Pete!
#20- By strategic planning and disciplined execution
Focusing on my goals requires a blend of strategic planning and disciplined execution. I prioritize my tasks by setting clear, achievable objectives and breaking them down into manageable steps. Minimizing distractions is crucial, so I dedicate specific time blocks for deep work and limit interruptions during these periods. Regularly reviewing my progress helps me stay aligned with my goals. By maintaining a balance between visionary thinking and practical action, I ensure that my focus remains sharp and my efforts are consistently directed towards achieving the long-term success of Glice.
Thanks to Viktor Meier, Glice!
#21- Through Pomodoro Technique
When wanting to focus, I actually draw inspiration from the Pomodoro Technique in which I essentially work in 25-minute intervals followed by 5-minute rests. I find that this division of labor into smaller portions helps me stay focused and stave off exhaustion. Regularly scheduled brief breaks throughout my day boost my productivity and keep me alert. This uncomplicated tactic ensures I remain on course and accomplish my objectives without succumbing to weariness or distractions.
Thanks to Steve Sacona, Top 10 Lawyers!
#22- By crafting a workspace environment
When focusing on complex tasks— I've discovered the importance of crafting a specific workspace environment. At our company, I often utilize ambient sounds or soft music to create a comfortable atmosphere. This subtle background noise helps mask distractions and allows me to settle into a productive state of mind. Imagine it as a consistent, calming hum that keeps me grounded. Whether it's the gentle murmur of a coffee shop or instrumental music, this background noise fosters an environment conducive to clear thinking and focused work.
Thanks to Stanley John Kebite, Japan-101!
#23- By sectioning my day into dedicated blocks
Whenever I want to optimize my focus throughout the workday, I tend to section my day into dedicated blocks for specific tasks. Doing so gives me the chance to fully engage in each activity, minimizing feelings of being overwhelmed. After completing a task, I take a short, ten-minute break to refresh my mind, either through a walk around the office or within my house. These brief intervals act as mental resets, allowing me to recharge and approach the next challenge with renewed vigor.
Thanks to Dane Nk, That VideoGame Blog!
#24- By regularly reviewing and adjusting strategies
My focus is sharpened by a commitment to regularly review and adjust strategies. This dynamic approach allows me to stay agile and responsive to the ever-changing market conditions. I constantly evaluate the effectiveness of our strategies, ensuring they align with our goals and the current business climate. By doing so, I can pivot quickly, seize new opportunities, and mitigate risks. This practice is not just about adaptation; it's about proactively shaping the future of the business with foresight and flexibility. It keeps me centered and purpose-driven, knowing that our direction is always guided by thoughtful reflection and strategic foresight.
Thanks to James Heartquist, We Buy Houses Arizona!
#25- Using fidget toys
Staying focused can be tough, especially when I am working from home. There are so many ways to get distracted, and sometimes the traditional methods just don’t cut it. I have found that fidget toys can help me channel restless energy, allowing my mind to focus better on the task at hand. By keeping the hands busy, they can reduce the need for other, more disruptive forms of fidgeting. Fidget toys have helped to increase overall productivity as they make it easier to stay on task for longer periods without experiencing mental fatigue.
Thanks to Wayne Mills, Seven Seas Worldwide!
#26- Through task rotation
Task rotation is my number one strategy when it comes to staying focused. Because I work remotely and often in different locations, I have to use a routine that works for me no matter where I am. Rotating tasks helps to distribute the workload more evenly, preventing periods of high stress and reducing the likelihood of missed deadlines. This method reduces the chance of procrastination because having a variety of tasks means you can switch to another task at any time, keeping momentum and productivity high. Having a schedule of multiple tasks for the day keeps me engaged and motivated.
Thanks to Danielle Hu, The Wanderlover!
#27- By being goal oriented
I am a very goal-oriented person, and this is very true with my business as well. Clear goals and objectives ensure everyone understands the organization's direction and priorities, reducing ambiguity and aligning efforts towards common aims. And with well-defined goals, teams can prioritize tasks effectively, focusing on what matters most and avoiding distractions. Clear goals encourage leaders like myself, and teams to think about the future, fostering a strategic mindset and long-term planning, by this, you can work with your teams to focus on finding innovative solutions to achieve them.
Thanks to Daisy Cabral, Bella All Natural!
#28- By setting transparent, manageable goals
I start by setting transparent, manageable goals. I then break these down into bite-sized tasks that directly support our business goals. I lean heavily on tools like time blocking and calendars to plan out my day, making sure I'm always focused and minimizing time lost to distractions. I regularly take a step back to reassess and change my priorities based on the always-changing market dynamics. I've found that clarity comes from taking care of my mental health too. Short breaks are really important. Also, I make sure my workspace is free from distractions and set clear boundaries.
Thanks to Alex Smith, Overlook Boots!
#29- By time blocking
It took me years to develop a strategy for focusing on my responsibilities, and in the end, it was laughably simple. I've become a huge advocate for time-blocking; a system whereby my week is split into blocks of 30 minutes or an hour and tasks are assigned to each block and evenly distributed throughout the week. Sticking to this schedule ensures that I don't procrastinate, or favor some work over others. It has been an absolute game-changer.
Thanks to Ryan Stone, Lambda Films London!
#30- Through good balance
To focus, I’m cognizant of my health. I want to be sure I’ve gotten the right amount of sleep, that I’m exercising, and eating properly to allow me to focus on a topic with my full attention. I carve out personal time to reflect on what I need to focus on so that I am not rushed and can be fully present. I create a nonjudgemental space for myself where I can think about what I need to without worrying about others’ perceptions. When I understand where I am with the issue, it gives me stability to focus on what I need to. I visualize all the positive sides of this issue. I equally need to consider the negatives and keep visualizing what it would take to get a positive outcome.
Thanks to Rhonda Bailey Staton, Women's University Club of Seattle!
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