Four Ways Leaders Stay Focused
I have a love-hate relationship with post-it notes.
I hate the fact that 3 or 4 becomes a distraction, and soon my mind darts from thought to thought.
- Check back with Dianne at her new company
- Set up golf outing with Bill
- Order new supplements
- Pick up a new roller bag for travel
A few years ago, I worked with a well-known president of a company in Seattle. What struck me was how clean and organized his office was. After a few coaching sessions, I asked: “I’ve taken note of your clean office. May I ask how and why do you keep it this way?” His reply stuck with me. “Steve, a clean office removes all of my distractions. It helps me keep my mind off of small things and focus on the things I want.”
Recent studies indicate switching from task to task can cost you up to 50% efficiency in your day.
3. Keep a priority list, NOT A TO-DO LIST.
I actually keep two lists: a master to-do list and more importantly, a priority list of my MVPs (most valuable and profitable goals). I keep that to no more than five. These are the things that really move the business needle and add significant value to the clients and organizations that I partner with.
These goals for the next 40 days focus your attention and provide you with direction, purpose, and passion. As you think about your goals, note that they should be:
- Clear and concise
- Close by so you see them daily
- Compelling with emotions and for a greater purpose
–Steve
As a master storyteller, Steve has unparalleled ability to communicate dynamic business and leadership truths through stories, anecdotes and humor. Harness the power of the “number one” predictor of professional success, impact, leadership, high performance and sustainable relationships in business and life. Steve’s highest rated keynote presentation.
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“The purpose of Leadership Quest is to help professionals develop their personal leadership, vision and emotional intelligence. Everyday I strive to help leaders and teams achieve their desired goals in sales productivity, leadership, time maximization, and life-balance. ”
About the Author
Steve Gutzler is the President of Leadership Quest, a Seattle-based leadership development company. Steve is a dynamic, highly-sought-after speaker who has delivered more than 2,500 presentations to a list of clients including Microsoft, Starbucks, the Seattle Seahawks, Pandora Radio, Boeing, Cisco, Starwood Corporation, the Ritz Carlton group, and the U.S. Social Security Administration. He recently was voted #1 by the readership of Huffington Post as the Most Inspirational Leader on Social Media.
A published author on leadership and emotional intelligence, Steve resides near Seattle with his wife Julie where they enjoy time with their three adult children and six grandchildren.
