Do you need more focus in your life?

We live in a world where it’s becoming increasingly difficult to remain focused. We find more on television than we can keep up with. We have Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat and more to keep us preoccupied for hours on end. We have so much that that vies for our attention.

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There comes a time when we know we need to remain focused on what truly matters. We all have to get work done. We all have to spend quality time with our families.

This past week was one of those weeks for me. I came down with the flu. I had a sermon to put together. I had this blog that needed writing. I needed time to focus and think.

I want to give you 6 things I do to remain focused so I can get the job done.

1. Find a quiet place to think. I do my best to get rid of any distractions. Whether I wait until my family goes to bed, or I simply close the door to my basement. I do what I can to put myself in a productive mindset.

2.Take yourself offline. One of the biggest time-wasters for me is social media, youtube and email. When I’m working on an important project, I go offline. I turn off my internet connection so I’m not tempted to be distracted. If I need internet, I’ll leave my browser open, but not social media or youtube.

3. Get comfortable. I usually work in a loose shirt and jeans. I find I’m more comfortable than in a starched button-up and slacks. I don’t want anything restricting me or the blood-flow to my brain. And, I find I’m more focused when I’m comfortable.

4. Take periodic breaks. Nothing keeps you frustrated and more distracted than long stretches without a break. I find if I don’t stop what I’m doing and either do something else or walk away and get a drink, my mind goes numb. If you want to try something, set your phone’s alarm clock. That way you’re working to beat the clock on a project.

5. Play music. I find music therapeutic. If I’m working on a blog post, a sermon or another big project, I’ll put on some music. I’ve discovered I’m more focused, relaxed and ready to tackle a project.

6. Set goals. If I don’t write things down, they don’t get done. But when I’m in the middle of a major project I need to set time oriented goals. If it’s a major project, breaking it into bite sized goals will give the a sense of accomplishment as you check those items off your to-do list.

It’s easy to be distracted today. But remaining focused and having an action plan to guide you will keep you focused as you work. If you take the time to be focused and put your mind to it, you’ll find success. It takes intentionality and a willing to do what it takes to get the job done.

[reminder]What do you do to remain focused on your projects?[/reminder]