Do you find yourself attached to: piles on your desk; in your closet; in the backseat of your car; next to your coffeepot? Do you have difficulty getting back “on task” after a coworker comes in to your office to ask you a question? Do you find yourself trying to think of all the myriad tasks you need to accomplish at work, at home, or for personal reasons? Do you have a simple system to help you accomplish your objectives?
Most people find it very challenging to get into a focused state, and then to stay in that focused state for any significant period of time. When we reduce our distractions, we can elevate our performance levels. However, it is extremely challenging to filter out the distractions, unless we have a system in place to manage them, because distractions can-and will-emerge. When we use simple daily tools to help us focus, we can be more productive at work and at home, and lead more effective and balanced lives.
Tool number one: Write it down! Each and every day write down the tasks you intend to accomplish-strech yourself but be realistic. Before attending a meeting, or leaving for lunch, write down any unfinished tasks that need attention so that you can return to the task as soon as possible. If something in the interim takes precedence, there is still a record of an unfinished task to be completed. Tool number two: Ask for support from coworkers and family members! If you are continually being interrupted, ask to have regularly scheduled “meetings” so that you can be more efficient. You may be setting such a great example that others will follow suit.
In the era of worshipping the multi-multi-multi tasker, it can be a challenge to follow the “one task at a time” rule. We almost feel as if we’re not keeping up, and are “under” productive compared to others. Recent studies have proven that those who can focus on one thing at a time will accomplish more in a shorter period of time than those who focus on multiple tasks. Without those constant daily distractions, we enjoy a life with reduced stress, and a better work/life balance.
At Coffeehouse Investors, we focus on the important things: Saving; Diversifying; and Capturing the benefits of the entire market, so that we can get out and enjoy life. We would love to hear your strategies for being more focused and productive so that we can share your ideas with the rest of the Coffeehouse Community.
Happy Tuesday!
Lori