Ask the Leadership Coach: How to Sharpen your Focus
It’s Q&A time again.
One question that stood out recently was about focus—a skill that’s vital for any leader to master in today’s fast-paced, always-on world.
Question:
How do I sharpen my focus as a leader in a fast-paced environment filled with many competing priorities?
Here’s my Answer:
This is an important question because focus is the foundation of effective leadership.
It’s not about doing more—it’s about doing what truly matters.
Here are a few strategies I recommend to sharpen your focus:
🌟 Clarify Priorities
Each morning, set aside 5 minutes to identify your top priorities for the day.
Focus on 1–2 key tasks that align with your goals and tackle them first.
Break down larger tasks into smaller steps, and schedule time blocks in your calendar for focused work sessions.
🌟 Block Distractions
Distractions are the enemy of focus. Silence your phone, turn off notifications, and use tools like website blockers to stay on track.
Create a clutter-free workspace that promotes productivity and communicate your need for uninterrupted time to those around you.
🌟 Delegate and Simplify
Ask yourself: What can only I do?
Let go of tasks that don’t need your personal attention and focus on what truly matters to your role as a leader.
🌟 Take Breaks to Recharge
Focus isn’t about grinding endlessly; it’s about working smarter. Follow the 50/10 rule—work for 50 minutes, then take a 10-minute break.
Step outside, stretch, or grab a healthy snack. A refreshed mind performs better.
🌟 Set Boundaries with Technology
Schedule specific times to check emails or respond to messages so they don’t interrupt your deep work.
When you’re in 1-1 meetings, put your phone away and give that person your full presence.
I know I’m just touching on important points like prioritising, blocking distractions, planning and these need to be explored more fully to come up with the best strategy for you. But if you take one of these and start small, it should make a big difference to your levels of focus.
Resources:
Book – Deep work by Cal Newport. This excellent book talks about our most precious resource – attention and focus. This is the unique value you bring to any project so leverage it and maximise it.
Video on the impact our phones have on our relationships with Simon Sinek.
So, what’s one focus tip you’ll try today?
Remember: Focus isn’t about doing everything perfectly—it’s about doing the right things at the right time.
Feel free to comment with more details if you’d like personalised recommendations!
Here’s to doing the right things, at the right time—one focused moment at a time.
Leadership Mojo – The unique energy, confidence and clarity that enable leaders to inspire, influence, and make an extraordinary impact.
Schedule your discovery call with Daphna today!