We’re in a focus crisis

Friends, we’re in a focus crisis. And you don’t have to take my word for it.

According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, in just 15 years, our attention span has declined by over 30%, from 12 seconds in 2000, to 8 seconds in 2015.

We’re now being beaten by goldfish (9 seconds) in our ability to focus. Seriously.

And that was 8 years ago. It’s even worse now.

And it’s leading to a lot of problems

1. It ruins your productivity

2. It makes you forgetful

3. It saps your energy

4. It destroys your self confidence

5. It fries your motivation circuits

What can increased focus do for you?

In short, it can reverse all of the above. But let me paint a better picture for you.

How many times have you started on a task, only to be distracted by someone coming to your desk, by a notification from your phone, when checking social media, responding to that email, or just actively finding ways to distract yourself?

If you’re like most people, this is your default mode of operation.

Before you know it, the time you had allotted to complete the task is over and you’ve barely gotten started.

You’ve just expended a lot of energy and accomplished very little.

It feels awful, doesn’t it?

Now imagine you had actually finished that task. In half the time you had carved out for it. Wow.

You can do it and I can help.

⚡Here’s your weekly charge ⚡

Next time you need to focus on something, I want you to do the following.

First, pick a single thing to work on and remove all distractions as much as possible. Phone off or on airplane mode, close down unnecessary windows, clear the desk of clutter, etc.

Now, before you start your focus block, I want you to begin with a 3-minute focus meditation.

Why? Because it primes your brain to focus, helping you get in the focus zone and stay there.

And over time, continuing this practice will strengthen the neural circuits that enable you to focus. It’s like strength training for your brain.

Here’s what to do

1. Find a place where you won’t be distracted

2. Set a timer for 3 - 5 minutes

3. Close your eyes

4. Focus on your breath. Pick out all the details and sensations of each inhale and exhale

5. It can help to think “inhale” and “exhale” when you’re breathing. Or you can simply count your breaths. 1, 2, 3….

6. When the timer runs out, open your eyes and immediately jump into your task. Watch with amazement as the magic unfolds!

Your mind WILL wander during this exercise. That’s OK because that’s the point!

You strengthen your focus by continuously bringing it back to the breath, not by feeling let down that your mind wandered off in thought.

Ready to optimize your performance in all areas of your life?

Schedule your free 30 minute strategy session with me today!

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