Learn To Focus. No More Multitasking!

Being a mother who multitasks is like adding too much fiber to your diet. It seems like good idea in theory but the results wreak havoc on your system. Jumping from project to project, over committing yourself, and doing two things at once, doesn't get the job done. It gets you a prescription for Ritalin.

So how are you supposed to raise your kids, maintain a healthy relationship with your partner, bring home the bacon, cook it, keep the house sanitary, and have some time for yourself? Learn to focus. And if you’re reading this while changing a diaper and dusting the computer, I’m talking to you!

When you have too much on your plate nothing gets done well. You end up feeling more scattered than ashes at a cremation ceremony. It may seem unrealistic to stop multitasking because you’ve been doing it for so long. But if you're feeling overwhelmed and stressed out, it’s just not working for you.

It's time to make focus your friend. Once you do, you’ll be amazed at how much more productive, efficient and energized you feel. Leaving you more time to do the things that matter most.

Tips On How To Focus

• Ask yourself “Is what I’m doing right now getting me closer to my goal?” If not, figure out why you're feeling a lack of motivation. Are you overwhelmed? Discouraged? Hungry? Fix the problem then get back to work.
• Commit to only doing work when you're in the zone. There's no point in forcing yourself to do something if you're just not feeling it. If you have no choice and must finish a task, find a way to make it more enjoyable. Add music, make your favourite drink or light a candle.
• Try to limit interruptions. Interruptions only create distraction. And these days, it's so easy to get... Sorry, hold on a minute.... I just got an email... Ok, I'm back... Where was I? Get my point? It takes more time to get back on track than it would to just finish in the first place. When something needs your undivided attention, cut yourself off from everything else. That means letting the phone go straight to voice mail, turning off your email programs, and letting everyone around you know that you're unavailable until further notice.
• Avoid the Bright Shiny Object Syndrome. BSOS is a condition that's so common, I'm surprised there isn't a telethon. It occurs when you're working on one thing and then you get distracted by something that you think is bigger and better. So you drop the old project to explore the new opportunity. Hollywood couples do this all the time. Every time you change your focus, it delays the outcome that you really want. Stick with one thing until completion.
• Keep a journal dedicated for new ideas. Every time you have a brainstorm, jot it down. That way it's all in one place and you'll know where to find it when the time is right. When you finish your current project, check it off your list and decide what you're going to tackle next.
• Cluster all appointments and errands. Dedicate a certain day of the week or block of time in your day to do all your running around. Errands become a lot less painful when you get them over with all at once.
• Set shorter deadlines. Many people work better under pressure. Use an egg timer and give yourself a certain amount of time to complete your task. If you really want to spice things up, before you're about to begin, pretend you hear Keifer Sutherland's voice from the show 24 saying, "The following takes place between 1pm and 2pm." Then go for it!