As Neurodiverse entrepreneurs, (or even just as neurodiverse, or as entrepreneurs, they don't have to be the same thing all the time,) we thrive on speed. First to market, first with the idea, first to implementation, first in the Peloton class... It doesn't matter. We simply need to be first. Speed rules the day. It always does.
But if you're not careful, speed can also kill you. As we say in skydiving, it's never the fall that kills you. It's the sudden stop at the end. So the key is simple: Be fast, but be safe.
At work, that's even more true. While we probably won't die with a "thud" if we stop working, getting off track can kill our productivity, and ruin our day, our week, or even our whole job. So here's ten ways to maintain your focus at work. Thank me later. 
- Create a conducive work environment: Designate a dedicated workspace that is clean, organized, and free from unnecessary distractions. Minimize visual and auditory disruptions to help you stay focused. There's a reason my first hour of every week is dedicated to cleaning off my desk.
- Set clear goals and priorities: Establish specific goals and prioritize your tasks. Having a clear direction and understanding of what needs to be accomplished helps you stay on track and avoid getting sidetracked.
- Break tasks into smaller, manageable chunks: Breaking down larger tasks into smaller, more manageable parts can make them less overwhelming. Focus on completing one task at a time, which helps maintain concentration and momentum. Remember - How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.
- Eliminate digital distractions: Turn off notifications or put your phone on silent mode to minimize interruptions from emails, messages, or social media. Consider using website blockers or productivity apps that limit access to distracting websites during work hours. YOU OWN YOUR PHONE. YOUR PHONE DOESN'T OWN YOU.
- Time blocking: Allocate specific time blocks for different tasks or types of work. Set aside dedicated periods for focused work without interruptions, and communicate your availability to colleagues, if necessary. In other words "if my head is down and I'm typing away vigorously, MAYBE THIS ISN'T THE TIME TO ASK ME A QUESTION.
- Practice mindful awareness: Cultivate mindfulness by bringing your attention to the present moment. When you notice your mind wandering, gently redirect your focus back to the task at hand. Mindfulness exercises and techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, can help enhance focus. This one takes a lot of practice, but it's so worth it when you get it.
- Take regular breaks: Breaks are essential for maintaining focus and preventing burnout. Schedule short breaks throughout the day to rest, stretch, and recharge. Use this time to relax, engage in activities you enjoy, or step away from your workspace. If nothing else, GET UP AND WALK.
- Manage your energy levels: Pay attention to your energy levels throughout the day. If possible, schedule complex or mentally demanding tasks during your peak energy periods when you feel most alert and focused. For me, that's early morning. It's definitely NOT after lunch.
- Practice single-tasking: Multitasking can often lead to decreased productivity and increased distractions. Instead, focus on one task at a time, giving it your full attention before moving on to the next. This allows for greater concentration and efficiency. We're not multitaskers, no matter how much we say we are.
- Communicate your focus needs: If you find it challenging to maintain focus due to interruptions from colleagues or meetings, communicate your need for uninterrupted work time. Set boundaries and politely inform others when you are engaged in focused work and request minimal disruptions unless absolutely necessary. "This is the nicest way of saying "get lost, I'm busy" that I could think of.
- Bonus: Exercise in the morning. Studies have shown that exercising in the morning produces dopamine, adrenalin, and serotonin, all of which are focus chemicals. They stick around for several hours after you're done working out. Finish the workout before work, and you've got an unfair productivity advantage for most of the day.
Have a great week! I'm taking the daughter to sleep away camp tomorrow, so any contact with me from Wednesday on will be through my sobbing. (kidding/not kidding.)
-Peter
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Peter Shankman is a best selling author, entrepreneur, keynote speaker, and a trainer living in New York City. He is a stay at home dad as well. Check out his blog.
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