When you first started your business you were likely very excited and enthusiastic about the possibilities. The freedom to work where and when you want were probably exhilarating. After the buzz wears off, reality sets in and you realize that with your newfound freedom, comes hard work and a need for extreme self-discipline.
Without proper focus, there is no way your small business or startup will ever be successful. Better explained in this video, the ability to focus is the number one essential element you will need if you are going toe be successful in business.
If you have found it difficult to maintain your focus and drive, here are a few ways to make sure you don’t get diverted:
Have a business pitch
Even if you are running a small business out your home office or from a local coffee shop, if asked to explain your motive, operation or goals, you should be able to do it in less than a minute. Having a business pitch is not just beneficial for explaining your business goals and objectives to others; It also can act as an anchor for your own motivation, especially in times when the stress of running your business distracts from the reason you started down this path in the first place.
Don’t try to do too much at once
The sad reality is that many of us have been deceived when it comes to multitasking. Studies have shown that multitasking is not only non-effective; it actually can be hampering your effectiveness.
Chances are your attempt to do multiple things at once is actually slowing down your ability to effectively complete any one task, and If left untamed this habit can take you down a path of paralysis analysis. Instead of trying to juggle multiple things at once, try focusing on one task at a time not veering from the task at hand until it is completely finished. You will be amazed at how quickly you get through your entire task list.
This concept has spawned books such as The One Thing, and Swallow that frog, and there is a reason that many have attributed these book and their concepts to revolutionizing their business.
Make a routine, and stick to it
Write it down, paste it to a wall and swear by it. If you must wake up at a certain time, force yourself to do it. If you are trying to work out daily, make sure you schedule time for it. If you are finding building a new habit hard then conclude that habit with a reward. This tricks the brain into enjoying what once may have been a struggle.
Do what works for you
Who said that you need a work corner with a desk? Work in your bed if that is what works for you. Forget that, work in your car if you must, or take a trip to the beach with your laptop! The same tricks don’t work for everyone, so find out what helps you focus the best and use it to your advantage.
Give yourself a break
Like every healthy work routine, you need a break. Work is no different. Allow yourself to relax from time to time. Perhaps this means spending 30 minutes every day in prayer or meditation, or possibly this means taking a day off every week. Whatever it is, it’s important to have some down time. Often when people temporarily remove themselves from the grind and relax, they are amazed at the breakthrough and insights they get.