It’s been a couple weeks since I’ve begun the Getting Focused project, and already I’ve experienced tremendous results in the areas of concentration and long-term focus. For nearly a week I’ve stuck to a routine of getting to bed earlier, waking up earlier, and writing. Essentially, I get to work before I get to work.
The biggest difference I feel can be experienced on Thursday nights. Usually on Thursday nights, I was burnt at both ends. Likely, I had not experienced adequate sleep from the previous nights; after establishing a focused foundation, this feeling was extinguished.
This week, my focus foundation centered on the following routine:
Before work, I would write. After work, I would read (I wouldn’t write–that was a rule. Writing is only for mornings).
I feel this gave me a calmer, sharper outlook on problems that needed to be solved throughout the work day. Essentially, it hedged out the emotion one usually carries into work, and instead drove me to think deeper (and logically) about issues that arose.
Looking forward to continuing this project and write about the art of focus every day.
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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Scott,
As I’m a student in college still and sometimes have to write papers, do you feel the same way about reading and writing? Obviously, if it’s due soon and I don’t have any other mornings to work on it I should break that rule and write away, but other than that exception, what’s your opinion on writing papers for school?
Thanks,
Kevin
Hey Kevin —
You know, there were some writing assignments I really didn’t enjoy in school, and there were others that really helped expand my mind. As an undergrad myself, I didn’t have much time to write on my own in the morning.
In college, there are already a wealth of assignments and papers. The routine outlined here works if you’re in the corporate or entrepreneurial world; however, the hours and routines in college are much different.
A routine that I suggest getting into would be:
(i) As part of your daily foundation (first thing in the morning), do one or a combination of the following exercises:
a) read a book that’s not part of a class. Something that you’re interested in. If you need a suggestion, ping me.
b) Use the technique I outlined in the chapter on writing via flash-cards to record some thoughts, quotes or inspirations. Review the previous days.
c) Exercise.
After this, go to class, hit up the library or do your normal daily routine. At night, I wouldn’t stress out about reading because in college, hours are so variable.