Lifescale

Chapter 3Refocus

Reclaim Your Attention: Simple First Steps

“Who you are, what you think, feel, and do, what you love—is the sum of what you focus on”

– Winifred Gallagher

 

Now that we've realized we have a major problem, the next step in lifescaling is to learn how to concentrate again by establishing positive and productive daily routines.

Georgetown professor Cal Newport observed, “High-quality work produced is a function of two things—the amount of time you spend on the work and the intensity of your focus during this time.”¹ Increasing your focus will ignite your creativity and help you get more done in less time, while also amplifying the quality of work.

There is no shortage of resources available to help you focus as you launch into your creative ventures. Trust me; I looked everywhere, talked to everyone, and read all that I could. Would-be resource centers are overflowing with platitudes that offer shallow tips, as well as attention-grabbing listicles of generic recommendations masquerading as life-changing prescriptions. My search was exhausting, and I found trying to sort through the glut of advice enormously frustrating. So, here I'll provide a few simple solutions for breaking the bad habits of disruption that I've found hugely helpful.

“High-quality work produced is a function of two things—the amount of time you spend on the work and the intensity of your focus during this time.”

But first, let me address a harmful myth about focus that's gained widespread ...