Carragee Consulting

Janis Ozolin’s Art

I’ve been especially scatter-brained lately.

I am certain it’s related to how many times I check my phone, even though 99% of the time it’s on silent.

One reason I can’t put it away for long stretches is that it’s used for multifactor authentication which is super annoying in all instances.

Another reason is that sometimes the interruptions are time sensitive or urgent – sick kid, partner got a flat tire and needs a ride home, someone needs info to deal with one of my rental properties, etc.

I know you can configure rules for when your phone will ring — e.g. when a list of key people call 2x in 5 minutes, but…

the main thing is that I need to develop more of a sense of calm and discipline that most things are not urgent.

My super power over the years is having more unstructured time than most people.

In between projects I’ve been able to read a lot, delve deeply into hobbies and reinforce social connections.

When my time and attention are splintered I don’t get the satisfaction I do from “deep work” or concentrated effort.

One strategy I have is to use Google Keep to maintain a list of ideas and To Do items so I can try to remember as they arise and then get back on task.

Does anyone else have good ideas for maintaining focus?