My Word for the Year (Part 1)

First off, I'm not a big "here's my word for the year" type person. I'm fickle. I like other people's words more. And then, what exactly am I supposed to do with this word?

But this year is different. I needed to get myself on track, and while I wasn't looking for a word, a word found me. (Actually two words found me, which is why this is Part 1).

My first word for the year: FOCUS. 

I don't know about you, but I have a lot of interests, which is great. The not-so-great part comes when you find yourself distracted at one thing because you are thinking about what you need to do to prepare for the next thing. And when you are at the next thing, you are thinking of that other thing that you forgot about. And on top of all that, we carry around these little "squirrel" devices that keep us from focusing even more.

Let's just say I could use fewer squirrels in my life.

How about you?

Here are some things I'm practicing to build more focus in my life:

1. (I'm putting this first, because if you only read one, this should be it): When people are around, pay attention. Look them in the eye. Listen to what they say, and if you don't understand, ask a clarifying question. Please don't nod and be on your way. Yes, focusing on tasks is important, but focusing on people, why, that is WHY we are here.

2. I start the week with intention and attention to priorities by writing down my basic to-dos and meetings in my paper planner. And of course, I add to it throughout the week as needed.

3. I keep my stuff in one spot and after using it, I put it back in the same spot. This saves so much time in the dreaded "where did I put this?" And yes, this applies to your keys, phone, and water bottle. This step is simple but not easy. I still get lazy with it, and when I do, I can lose a lot of time not doing what I want to be doing.

4. Don't put off something that can be done right now. I've learned this the hard way after years of procrastinating in various areas of my life. 

5. I use timers for almost everything. This keeps me from grabbing my phone every 5 minutes to see what the time is. It allows me to be all-in focused on the task at hand, but also ensures I build in the time needed for what's next.

6. I fight the urge to multitask when I am in a meeting or on a phone call. I've tried to maintain focus on a few things at once, but I've discovered something loses out. (It's usually my mind, plus all those other things I'm juggling inadequately.)

7. I keep my paper planner with me always. (See #2.) If I finish a task and start "squirreling," I grab my planner, and immediately I'm pulled back on track. I imagine this can work with a phone calendar as well, but for me, I try to pick up my phone as little as possible because it is such a distraction for me.

The ideas above work for me, because I know where my weaknesses are, as well as my strengths. Writing lists and thoughts on paper always sharpen my focus, for instance.

What about you?

 Even if "focus" isn't an issue for you, we could probably all use a few less squirrels that keep us from accomplishing what we are really meant to do each day.

Do you know someone who could use more focus? Send this along to them right now. (See #4.)

Let's do this.