One thing that has helped me get my focus back on track is employing an Enforcer. Basically I write a list of rules (simple stuff, no social media between X hours, focus on one thing at a time no matter what, time limits etc.) and then commit to stick to them for a week, or a month. The flashlight might want to jump around like crazy because I'm not well trained (weak, so weak!) but the Enforcer doesn't allow me to break the rules I have already agreed to.
It's exceptionally painful at the start, buy you just have to stick to the rules, stick to the rules, stick to the rules... Eventually the rules become easier to follow, and focus starts to become easier again.
I guess willpower, but I write weekly or monthly manifestos to myself, with a train-of-thought diary type entry to get my head straight and, most importantly, a list of very clear and specific rules. I print the manifesto off, and physically sign and date it at the bottom, so it feels like a very real and personal commitment.
At the end of the day it is just willpower, but if willpower is low, I can look at the manifesto and my name attached to the bottom of it and think "am I the kind of person who keeps a promise? Am I going to renege on this formal contract that I signed with MY NAME?"
It doesn't always work, I break my promise all the time, but I break it a lot less than if I didn't have that signed manifesto.
One thing that has helped me get my focus back on track is employing an Enforcer. Basically I write a list of rules (simple stuff, no social media between X hours, focus on one thing at a time no matter what, time limits etc.) and then commit to stick to them for a week, or a month. The flashlight might want to jump around like crazy because I'm not well trained (weak, so weak!) but the Enforcer doesn't allow me to break the rules I have already agreed to.
It's exceptionally painful at the start, buy you just have to stick to the rules, stick to the rules, stick to the rules... Eventually the rules become easier to follow, and focus starts to become easier again.
This is the way. Do you have any tools that help your Enforcer enforce? Or just will power?
I guess willpower, but I write weekly or monthly manifestos to myself, with a train-of-thought diary type entry to get my head straight and, most importantly, a list of very clear and specific rules. I print the manifesto off, and physically sign and date it at the bottom, so it feels like a very real and personal commitment.
At the end of the day it is just willpower, but if willpower is low, I can look at the manifesto and my name attached to the bottom of it and think "am I the kind of person who keeps a promise? Am I going to renege on this formal contract that I signed with MY NAME?"
It doesn't always work, I break my promise all the time, but I break it a lot less than if I didn't have that signed manifesto.
Amazing! I often cried ‘Yes!’. I looked up new terms. You have changed the way I perceive time, focus, even physiology. Thank you!
how do i sign up for this....