Good morning, and happy Tuesday!

Yesterday was one of those days where I had a big block of time available to get stuff done – write programs, respond to emails, send out online clients’ nutrition and workout programs, and all of the other tasks that fall under “admin” in my job. However, I had about an hour before my next client, so I got on Instagram…and then turned around and went to my long-term to-do list. I’ll explain in a second.

Being self-employed, I have to rely on self-motivation a LOT. I have no boss to report to, no timesheet to punch in (though I do remember those days…ugh,) and unlike office settings, I don’t get paid while I browse blogs/research/etc. I only get paid when I work. This means that I have to stay on task if I want to make the most of my time. Not that I’m complaining, I like reporting to myself!

And in that sense, I have to focus not only on the tasks at hand that day, but also my long term goals. One of the most frustrating things is when I have an end goal in mind, but can’t seem to focus enough to complete a task without being distr…oh look a shiny object!

To combat this, one thing I do every single day, is write down 5 tasks to complete by the end of the day to get me closer to that goal.

This is different from my usual to-do list. It doesn’t include training clients, writing programs, teaching class, and other things I have to do for my job. Instead, it’s things that I don’t necessarily have to do, but will get me to that end goal…that “dream” if you will. For example, a couple items on my list today include updating a part of my nutrition guidelines for clients, and studying for my Health Coach exam:

Oh yeah, I forgot to mention – I’m studying to become a certified Health Coach through ACE

Anyway, starting my day out by breaking my end goal into small, simple steps keeps me focused. It keeps me progressively working and being productive in achieving that goal. I also find it to be grounding. I typically write my  after I do my devotions in the morning, and it keeps in check what’s important in my (professional) life.

Another thing that keeps me on task? Informant Pocket Pro.

Seriously. This app is amazing. It’s the most I’ve ever spent on an app, but it’s 100% worth it. And today it reminded me that I need to disclose the winner of the FlapJacked Protein Pancake Giveaway! The winner is……..

Lindsay! Shoot me an email and I’ll get you hooked up with your pancake mix

Have a good one!

What tactics do you use to stay focused?