People think focus means saying yes to the thing you’ve got to focus on. But that’s not what it means at all. It means saying no to the hundred other good ideas that there are. You have to pick carefully.
Steve Jobs
42 Days Of Yes!
Day 37: Escape To Focus
One of the main challenges I hear from clients these days involves the difficulty in focusing, in being able to delve into a project, get into ‘the zone,’ and eliminate distractions. We jokingly refer to this as Shiny Object Syndrome or “Oh Look! A Squirrel!” Whatever you call it, if you live and work in the 21st century, you probably experience it to some extent, too.
I have a number of measures I take and tools I use to stay focused on work when I’m working and on family and personal pursuits when I’m not. But on Day 37, due to nearby construction and continual commotion, I had to take drastic (ha ha) measures.
I left my office and fled to my favorite local coffee shop with (here’s the drastic part) only one item.
Usually I bring along a few projects, a book or two, my journal, my iPad, and a bag’s worth of possibilities – just in case. So to walk in with just one project? Brand new experience.
I’ve always admired the people I see at coffee shops who sit in a comfortable chair with only the book in their hand and their coffee on a nearby table. Although I wasn’t reading a book today, I enjoyed experiencing this same kind of focus – and I got a ton finished!
One small step for humankind, one giant leap for Christi Hegstad! 🙂
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Dr. Christi Hegstad helps you successfully do what you love! As a Certified Executive and Leadership Coach and the President of MAP Professional Development Inc., she coaches executives and leaders who need to get unstuck – whether in your leadership ability, income level, or from spinning your wheels in the day-to-day. Christi helps you flourish towards your purposeful vision with clarity, confidence, and meaningful action.
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