2 Simple Strategies to Stay Focused and Achieve Goals

One of the biggest obstacles that keeps us from moving forward and reaching our goals is the constant interruptions and distractions we face each day.  In our modern world of 24 hour media and communication it is no wonder so many of us have a hard time achieving our goals as our attention is continuously being diverted.  Concentrating on our top priorities has never been more difficult. 

To combat the constant struggle of interruptions and distractions I’d like to offer two simple ideas that I’ve seen work. 

#1 Eat the Frog First

I’ve written about this in a previous blog on 10/6/2011 but one of the most important things we can do is to “eat the frog” first or in other words, complete the nastiest and most undesirable but important task of the day first.  When we do this, it will allow us to focus better throughout the remainder of our day because we will no longer have the “frog” croaking in the back of our mind.  “Frogs” can be a major distraction and when we postpone them and put them off, they often sidetrack us or keep us from doing our best.  Getting in the habit of eating the frog first, or getting the most important and difficult task of the day out of the way will help us to be less distracted. 

#2 Focus Sessions

What time of the day are you at your best?  Is it the morning right when you wake up?  Or maybe it is mid-morning, the afternoon, or right before you go to bed.  Whatever time of day you are normally at your best, set aside daily some time for a “focus session.”  These are times when you make yourself unavailable to the outside world, where you completely disconnect and remove all distractions including turning off your phones and wireless connections on all of your media devices.  This is where you set aside an hour or two to focus just on your goals and top priorities without distractions and interruptions.  This may require you to put a sign on your office or bedroom door that tells others when you will be available next.  You will be amazed by what you can accomplish and achieve if you have the discipline to give yourself even just a half hour each day free from distractions.

Don’t allow the distractions and interruptions of our modern world keep you from achieving your goals and reaching your potential.  Find ways to overcome them by utilizing proven strategies such as eating the frog first and holding focus sessions each day.  As we discipline ourselves, and accept the fact that constant distraction and interruptions do negatively impact our performance, we can begin to change and improve our results and satisfaction in life.