Digging for Focus: A 3-Step System for Productivity

Think about the times you struggle to focus. What are the common triggers and distractions?

“Getting to that focused dialed in state of mind is a lot like mining for gold.”

Read about focused and diffused modes from 'A Mind for Numbers' by Barbara Oakley. Understand the benefits of both.

“In her book, A Mind for Numbers, the author Barbara Oakley calls these the focused and the diffused modes of thinking.”

Choose a task from your to-do list that feels overwhelming or directionless.

“If you look at the goal lists and the to do lists of most people, you're going to see goals like eat healthier and to do's like write the paper or work on the sales page.”

Set a timer for 5 minutes. Break down the vague task into a clear, obvious, very next action. Estimate time and soak in details/context.

“Instead, what you want to do is try to get that direction. So take five minutes or maybe even set a timer for five minutes and soak in the details of your task.”

Take a 20-minute walk without focusing on any specific problem. Let your mind wander.

“Go for a 20-minute walk, or maybe take a nap, or clean your room. Do something that lets your brain relax and not have to intensely focus on any one thing.”

Declutter and organize your workspace. A clean environment can promote a clearer mind.

Set a timer for 25 minutes. Focus solely on your Very Next Action (VNA).

“So at this point, just set a timer for 25 minutes and commit to working only on that task as best as you can. This is the classic Pomodoro Technique”

Try using an hourglass or silencing your timer to maintain focus beyond 25 minutes if you're in the zone.

“And this is actually quite useful because I have found through years of doing Pomodoro sessions that I almost never stop working and take a break when that 25 minute timer goes off.”