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How just 30 minutes of deep concentration can bring you more calm, clarity, and effectiveness
Multitasking is often seen as a sign of productivity – but in reality, it costs us what we need most: true presence, mental clarity, and the satisfaction of actually getting things done. The good news? You can reclaim that feeling. With a simple but powerful exercise. Today is your chance to experience real focus – consciously, and with yourself at the center.
The goal: Feel what real focus does to your body and mind
Notice how much calmer, clearer, and more effective your day can be when you do just one thing at a time.
Here’s how the Focus Challenge works:
1. Choose your focus task
Pick one task that you absolutely want to complete today – ideally something that requires concentration. Maybe it’s a concept you’ve been putting off, or a creative task that often gets buried in daily demands.
2. Schedule two focused sessions of 30 minutes each
Block out one half-hour slot in the morning and another in the afternoon. During these timeframes:
- Switch your phone to airplane mode
- Close your email inbox and chat tools
- Keep only one task open – the one you’ve chosen to focus on today
3. Begin with a small ritual
Take a moment to mentally arrive:
– Take three deep breaths
– Set a timer
– Stretch or close your eyes for a few seconds
This helps signal to your brain: focus begins now.
4. After each session, write down a few quick notes:
- How did you feel during the session?
- What did you accomplish?
- How was your energy compared to a “normal” work session?
This simple reflection makes your progress visible – and reinforces the positive effects of staying on task.
5. In the evening: Self-check
- How often did you slip into multitasking today?
- What triggered it – stress, restlessness, habit?
- What helped you return to your focus?
This isn’t about judging yourself – it’s about learning what really works for you.
Bonus tip: Share your experience with your team
Focus is contagious. Maybe others will want to try it too. Who knows – it might even spark a new shared ritual that brings more calm, clarity, and connection to your workplace.
Conclusion: Less really is more – especially for your mind
A day without multitasking isn’t a step backward. It’s a step back to yourself. You’ll notice how much lighter work can feel when you’re fully present. And by the end of the day, you might just ask yourself: Why don’t I do this more often?