Highly Focused People
Each day we bombarded by multiple commitments, emails from co-workers, the occasional fire to put out, and so on. Additionally, there are probably several tasks that need to be completed, some more that you would like to do, and others that just seem to be in the distant future. You can’t do it all. And, as research shows, we can only do one thing well at a time. When you go back and forth from task to task you will always be underperforming. This is just on the day-to-day.
There is also something to be said for focusing on one project for a longer period of time until you see it to completion. Trying to juggle multiple commitments doesn’t allow you to get into the flow on the project.
I found James Clear’s advice on Twitter helpful, especially the line “If you commit to nothing, you’ll be distracted by everything.”
Tweet Link - @james_clear
Highly focused people do not leave their options open. They make choices. If you commit to nothing, you’ll be distracted by everything.
The great irony of this is that by limiting your options and remaining focused until you master a skill, you actually expand your options in the long run. Life-changing optionality is a byproduct of providing great value, which can only be achieved through focus.
So commit, focus, and complete then move on.