This past week I was having coffee and an energizing conversation with a friend who is also an anywhere worker. We were sharing our stories of how we could not seem to find a block of time to focus on one thing during the day. Her situation is especially challenging with a 4 year old daughter at home. She laughed and said ‘I wouldn’t even know what to do with 90 minutes in one block. It happens so seldom, what would I focus on?’
This started me to wonder, if you had 90 minutes of uninterrupted time in which you were able to focus on just one thing…what would it be? How is the best way to spend this time as an anywhere worker? Here are my top 3 ideas:
1. Connect with your current team. This includes current clients, project team mates, suppliers, and stakeholders. Depending upon how many people are on this list, you could make a quick call or, if the list is long, send a quick email checking in. Staying connected and in front of mind is one of the most important actions you can take as an anywhere worker.
2. Collaborate with a teammate on a difficult task. Tackle something that you have been putting aside because it seems overwhelming. Bringing in a thought partner is like bringing in another 2 brains to address your problem. Remember: the whole is greater than the sum of the parts. Take turns working on difficult tasks. This week work on hers, next week work on yours. The results are amazing.
3. Work in the inside. Spend the time building your own competencies and skills so that you can stay productive. You know that mid-year review you just experienced? I’m sure there are developmental goals that need your attention. Take this 90 minute focus time and get closer to achieving that goal.
Next time you are having difficulty concentrating, or you feel you are pulled in too many directions, schedule a 90 minute block of time and focus on just one thing. Time is your most valuable resource…spend it wisely!
