Productivity

Ep 192. How to Stay Focused During Workblocks

I'm Ashley!

My mission at The Purpose Gathering is to help driven momtogs like you level up, so you can build a sustainable business AND a fulfilling family life. I do that through authentic brand photography and my signature program for mompreneurs: The Efficient Mompreneur.

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How to Optimize Your Limited Time & Maximize your Revenue as a Mompreneur 

Are you feeling like you’re constantly battling distractions, watching your to-do list grow endlessly, and struggling to stay focused when you finally sit down to work?

Trust me, I’ve been there. As a mom and business owner, I know how challenging it can be to maintain focus amidst the chaos of daily life.

But don’t worry – I’ve discovered some game-changing strategies that have transformed my chaotic work hours into productive power sessions, and I’m excited to share them with you!

The Struggle is Real

Before we dive in, let’s acknowledge something: staying focused as a mompreneur is hard.

Whether it’s the siren call of household chores, the constant ping of notifications, or the adorable (but disruptive) little ones vying for our attention, distractions are everywhere.

But here’s the good news: you have the power to set the tone for your work blocks and take control of your productivity.

11 Strategies to Supercharge Your Focus

1. Start with a Business Meeting with God

  • Begin each work block with a 20-minute check-in
  • Spend 10 minutes brain dumping all thoughts (personal and professional)
  • Follow with 5 minutes of gratitude
  • End with 5 minutes of reflection, listening to lo-fi Christian music

This practice helps center your mind, heart, and intentions before diving into work. Even if you’re not religious, consider a similar reset routine to set yourself up for success.

2. Create an Inspiring Workspace

  • Find a place that motivates you to work
  • Prioritize natural light and cleanliness
  • If home is too distracting, consider working at a coffee shop or library

Your environment plays a huge role in your focus and productivity. Make sure you’re working in a space that energizes and inspires you.

3. Use a Time Tracker

  • Try a free tool like Toggl (toggl.com)
  • Install the Chrome extension for easy start/stop tracking
  • Use it to stay on task and analyze where your time is going

Time tracking helps you stay accountable and gives you valuable insights into your work patterns.

4. Set Timers for Tasks

  • Determine the average time a task takes you
  • Set a timer for that duration (or slightly less)
  • Move on when the timer goes off – no restarting!

This technique helps prevent tasks from expanding to fill all available time and keeps you moving efficiently through your to-do list.

5. Stop Multitasking

  • Focus on one task at a time
  • Close unnecessary tabs and windows
  • Group related tasks in one browser window

Multitasking might feel productive, but it often leads to increased anxiety and decreased efficiency. Give your full attention to one task at a time.

6. Use a Task Management System

  • Have a system to capture new tasks that pop up
  • Keep a notebook or sticky notes nearby to jot down ideas
  • Process these notes at the end of your work block

This prevents you from going down the “rabbit hole” of distractions when new tasks or ideas emerge.

7. Take Frequent Breaks

  • Listen to your body’s needs
  • Take breaks for bathroom, food, or stretching
  • Don’t push through at the expense of your well-being

Taking care of yourself leads to better focus and productivity in the long run.

8. Put Your Phone Away

  • Use “Do Not Disturb” mode
  • Better yet, put your phone out of sight and reach
  • Use desktop versions of apps when possible

Your phone is probably your biggest distraction – make it harder to access during work time.

9. Pre-plan Snacks and Meals

  • Prepare meals and snacks before your work block
  • Avoid wasting time deciding what to eat
  • Ensure you’re fueling your body properly for optimal focus

Proper nutrition is key to maintaining focus and energy throughout your work day.

10. Create a Focus-Friendly Playlist

  • Consider lo-fi or instrumental music
  • Avoid music with lyrics if you find them distracting
  • Experiment to find what works best for you

The right background music can help create a productive atmosphere and drown out distractions.

11. Use Essential Oils

  • Diffuse oils that promote focus or energy
  • Try oils for breathing or purification if needed
  • Use scent to set the tone for your work environment

Aromatherapy can be a powerful tool for creating a focused mindset.

Your Action Plan

Now that we’ve covered these strategies, it’s time to put them into action.

Here’s what I want you to do:

  1. Choose one or two strategies that resonate with you the most
  2. Implement them in your next work block
  3. Pay attention to how they affect your focus and productivity
  4. Adjust as needed and gradually incorporate more strategies

Remember, the goal isn’t to implement everything at once.

Start small, be consistent, and watch how your productivity (and peace of mind) transform over time.

You’ve Got This, Mama!

I know making changes can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already juggling so much. But trust me, taking control of your work blocks is a game-changer.

Imagine feeling focused and productive during your work time, and then being fully present with your family without the nagging guilt of unfinished tasks.

It’s not just a dream – it can be your reality!

So, what do you say? Are you ready to transform your work blocks and start living that mompreneur life you’ve been dreaming of? I’m cheering for you every step of the way!

I’d love to hear from you!

What’s your biggest takeaway from this post? Which strategy are you most excited to try?

Share your thoughts on Instagram and tag me @thepurposegathering – let’s inspire other mamas to take control of their time!

Until next time, keep shining that beautiful light of yours. You’re doing amazing things, even when you don’t realize it. And remember, a well-planned work block leads to a successful (and sane) life!

Thank you for spending part of your day with me.

And as always, mama, I am here rooting for you and you are not alone on this journey.

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Complimentary Episodes:

  1. Ep 190. How to Structure Your Work Blocks Effectively
  2. Ep 183. Transform Your Workday Starting with a Strategic Business Meeting
  3. Ep 130. My Favorite Productivity Tools
  4. Ep 53. These 5 Mistakes are Sabotaging Your Productivity
  5. Ep 36. Maximize Your Productivity with Minimal Time
  6. Ep 12. 5 Tips for Working with Kids at Home
  7. Browse All Productivity Related Episodes

Resources:

  1. Ideal Week Blueprint – Get the clarity and tools you need to take control of your calendar and align your week with your goals and priorities.
  2. Join the Profit Shift Challenge – 14 Day challenge to to Optimize Your Limited Time & Maximize your Revenue as a Mompreneur 
  3. Need support managing your time well and creating systems to streamline your business? Join the Efficient Mompreneur (12 Month Group Coaching Program)
  4. Message me on Voxer (My username is afreehan)
  5. Have a question for me? Or a specific struggle you’re dealing with? I’ll address your question on the podcast. Submit your ‘Ask Ashley’ question here
  6. Local to Gilbert/Mesa Arizona (For Mom Business Owners) Join our in person membership community

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My mission is to help fellow mom business owners experience success in business and in motherhood. As an Arizona brand photographer for mompreneurs, I’m passionate about capturing authentic images that show off my clients’ unique personalities so they can connect with their ideal clients. And as an online business coach for mompreneurs, I LIVE for helping mamas experience incredible transformations that help them build a business they love, without sacrificing their precious time with their littles.

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