Give yourself some Focus Time
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Ever sit down to tackle an important project, only to realize an hour later that you've answered six emails, responded to three texts, and taken two phone calls, but barely touched the project? We've all been there!
One of my favorite productivity strategies is Focus Time (or Time Blocking). The concept is simple: dedicate a specific amount of uninterrupted time to ONE task. Here's how to put it into practice:
1. Eliminate distractions. Put your phone, messaging apps and email on Do Not Disturb, send office calls to voicemail, close unnecessary browser tabs, shut your office door, and let others know you're unavailable for a little while.
2. Set a timer. Choose a realistic amount of time to focus exclusively on the task.
3. Focus on ONE thing. Resist the temptation to multitask. Give yourself permission to concentrate on the work in front of you.
4. Take intentional breaks. For larger projects, try working in 60-minute blocks, followed by a 15–30-minute break. Walk around, stretch, refill your water, rest your eyes, or tackle something completely different.
Then return to the project, reset your timer, and begin again.
Working nonstop isn't necessarily the best way to get things done.
Focused work sessions can make overwhelming projects feel more manageable, while planned breaks give you an opportunity to recharge before diving back in.
Productivity isn't about being busy every minute. It's about making the minutes you spend working count.
Start with one uninterrupted hour today. See what you can accomplish when you give one task your full attention!