focus

Get Notified of Important Email Messages

Let the computer watch for important messages so you don’t have to

Don’t waste time constantly checking email “just in case” you got an important message. Your email client can help.

3:00 read (600 words)

Protect Your Focus with Email-Free Zones

Give yourself permission to work without getting dinged

Here are some times you definitely should not be checking email. You can start breaking free of your email addiction here.

3:15 read (643 words)

Removing Browser Tab Clutter

Surfing the web is like any other task—clean up when you’re done

Having lots of open browser tabs makes it difficult to get anything done. Figure out why you have the page open, make sure you can get back to the information when you need it, and get productive online.

4:00 read (801 words)

Four Stages of Increasing Focus

Increase your intensity, increase your productivity

Focus helps you be productive day-to-day and get clear on the big picture. Here are four stages of focus that will help at any level of thinking.

4:15 read (858 words)

Quit Sabotaging Your Productivity with a Cluttered Desktop

Keep your digital workspace clear and ready for the task at hand

Clutter on your computer desktop can hurt your productivity as much as clutter on your physical desktop. Here’s why and how to clean it up.

3:20 read (667 words)

Reducing Distractions with Do Not Disturb

Keep control of your attention 24/7

Here’s how you can use Do Not Disturb on your iPhone to get more done during the day and sleep better at night.

4:55 read (983 words)

The Opportunity Cost of Reading a Book

Reading is good, but it’s not always the best use of your time

Sometimes, the best way to spend your time is to be fully present in the moment. Don’t miss out on the important things in life because you were too busy being busy.

3:45 read (745 words)

Focus on the Top 20%

Separate what drives results from what takes up your time

How different would your life be if you didn’t spend 80% of your time on things that don’t matter as much as the top 20%? With a little planning and practice, you can spend your time and attention on what matters most.

3:30 read (708 words)

Focusing on the Visible Horizons

How many major projects can you see coming down the road?

You can’t focus on everything at once. Pay attention to what comes next without ignoring the mountains looming before you.

3:10 read (632 words)