Despite having written a book on the topic of focus ("Focus: use the power of targeted thinking to get more done," Pearson Publishing) I still have days when the plethora of things that I want to do (I've stopped saying "have to do") feels so overwhelming that the temptation is to forget about all of them and read a book or watch TV instead. Naturally it's a good thing to have time to read and watch TV as well, but they're not the best choice at times like these.
The practice that gets me back on track is very simple. So simple that sometimes I'd prefer something more complicated and interesting--no wait, that's part of the procrastination/overwhelm... Anyway, here it is:
1. Make a list of everything you need to do.
2. Do the one that seems like the next logical step. During this, avoid looking at your list.
3. When you've done that one thing, go back to the list and pick another.
4. Keep going.
I told you it was simple. And come to think of it, maybe having written the book isn't DESPITE having those feelings, it's BECAUSE of having those feelings...
Anyway, the next time the wall of tasks are closing in on you, try it. After you've done the first three or four tasks this way, you'll start to breathe easier again.
