Many of us run our lives off “To Do” lists — and have issues managing time, priorities, and eliminating distractions. We’re all over the place and our attention and mood is scattered, stressed and we’re inefficient. It doesn’t have to be that way! We can increase our productivity and save our sanity when we operate ‘in the zone’ more of the time. When you are in the zone, you are focused, firing on all cylinders, getting things done, accomplishing your goals, meeting expectations of yourself and others, all while staying in a calm, neutral place emotionally. You feel good because you’re taking care of what you need to and are honoring your commitments to yourself and others; you’re doing what you said you were going to do. There’s no greater sense of satisfaction than that! I know that’s been my experience.
Here are a few tips for getting in the zone:
- Identify your most important task at any given moment — and choose to focus on it.
- Eliminate distractions by structuring your environment for success — this could include hanging a sign on your door, putting your phone and e-mails on mute, and even unplugging from the internet for a set period of time. Generally speaking you want to create a quiet space to focus, but you may want to put on some music if it helps you to relax and stay focused.
- Focus your full attention on the task at hand — let nothing disrupt your thinking or environment (as above).
- Do it for a reasonable period of time, at least 30 minutes or more is better — your best work will often come from being in the flow state of focus on a given task for however long you can.
- Stay with your chosen task until it’s finished — the feeling of accomplishment is well worth it!
The ability to get into the zone and ‘in flow’ with focus and intent to accomplish your goals is a key attribute for success and self-improvement. Self-trust increases as does trust by others.
Give it a try and let me know how you do!
Do you have a question, challenge or success story you’d like to share? Please be sure to leave a comment. I’d enjoy hearing from you.
~Kelli