We’re movin’ and groovin’ and on to the “C”  in FOCUS.

 

C–

 

Chunk it.

If a task seems overwhelming we immediately find other things to do don’t we?  Or we start and stop, start and stop and never seem to gain traction.

Breaking a large task down into sequential steps that can be crossed or checked off (SUCH a psychological boost!).

There are many different ways you can do this and I’m only going to discuss one here.

In special education there is a strategy that is called backward chaining (it’s basically task analysis in reverse).

This particular strategy goes hand in hand with starting with the end in mind.  You start with what you want your end result to be and start working the steps backwards.

This is also a great way to see where you are running into challenges and it engages your brain in a new way to stimulate creative thinking since your brain has already got the finished product tucked up in there.

So for example, let’s say you wanted to create a newsletter.  Starting with the end in mind, picturing what it will look like, the sections you will have, etc.  You continue to work backwards with filling in information, adding pics and so on.  Now this was a very simplified example, but you get the idea.

One very effective tool used in chunking is the use of a checklist (backwards chaining works brilliantly in creating checklists).  As I mentioned being able to cross or check off items when completed gives you a sense of accomplishment and has the added benefit of keeping you focused!  Chunking is just one of several strategies that I go over in depth in CravinIt™ my new program that combines self-study, personal coaching and opportunities to connect with others!

What’s your favorite focusing strategy?