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Keeping Focused

 

 

Being a home based entrepreneur can be a bit frustrating. 

Keeping focused on business and daily tasks can take over the best of intentions, leading to overwhelm and distraction.  Lately, I found myself getting a bit distracted.  I wanted to make a list of all I have to do and share it with you. It’s not a complete list, but it’s a start.  I’m sure you have the same kind of thing going on.

 

 

1. Write my new blog post
2. Reply to comments on my blog posts, and reciprocate to those who have commented
3. Contribute status updates on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn… all the social media platforms
4. Answer readers’ and clients’ questions about blogging and marketing on a daily basis
5. Implement strategies for increasing my subscriber list
6. Continue to build a relationship with my current subscriber list
7. Create a new webinar
8. Market affiliate programs
9. Learn something new every day
10. Implement something new every day

As most of my readers know, I am a psychic and I do readings on a daily basis.  I allocate about 4 hours per day for doing this.  So I need to focus on that business in addition to my blogging and online marketing.  Phew…that takes a lot of energy… lol.

I also have 3 dogs.  They need attention, too.  Walking, brushing, playing, feeding etc.  Another task.  And they won’t let me put their needs on the back burner, no matter how busy I get!

Then, my passionate and hobby of buying and selling mid century antiques is one I keep up on a regular basis.  I rent a small space in an antique center, and maintaining it takes a bit of my time.  But I can’t give it up because it’s a true work of love… a long-time passion of mine, that just gives me so much enjoyment and recess from “real” work.  

I usually spend my Saturday’s hunting down estate sales, auctions and garage sales. I find great stuff, take it home, spiff it up and bring it into the store.  It is a relaxing thing for me to do.  Getting that rush when I find a great deal and then flipping it.

Lately, I’ve been buying silver jewelry and having a blast doing so.  Talk about those Pawn shops….Oh boy.  Just last week I purchased “scraps” of sterling silver that were true retro finds!  I just love doing this.  It is the one outlet I have that gets me physically involved… that “gets my hands dirty”. A tangible object can be fixed or clean and shined up for resale.  Whoopie….I love  it.

But then I start looking around my home.  I notice the dust piling up.  I tried to have a cleaning service come in once, but the dogs got all upset.  So, I have to do it myself.  You know, if you don’t keep up that housekeeping, things start getting put in the wrong place and just collect dust.  I like to furnish my home in a minimalist fashion.  I gaze into my office and see papers all over the place and Urgggg….just walk out.  So, I need time to do that, too.

I also work to stay on a healthy diet.  Heck, I moved to this town in order to to live by organic farms and eat healthy.  This is something that I tend to slip away from when I get too busy with work.  I usually purchase organic food, take it home and cook it the same day for the live nutrients.  I’ll even take it as far as going to a local organic farm to get my stuff fresh picked, right from the ground!  It fills me with energy.  Although I don’t eat furry faces, just because I don’t like to, I do embark on an occasional hunt for fresh fish or chicken.   

I even try to set aside some time to exercise!  Yikes…I’ve let that go, too.  “I have no time” is my usually my lame excuse.  

So, my friends, taking all this into consideration, you can see how easy it is for me to lose “focus”.

And I do.  Yes, I know time management strategies, but applying the just wasn’t enough.  I found myself staring at the computer, not writing, dust all over my house, dogs shedding like crazy and escaping for a while by going out to eat.  End result:  OVERWHELM.  I would do one task and look around me and see five more.  Nothing was working.

              Until….I started doing self hypnosis to help me focus better.

I have been in my “Focus Cave” for the past three days.  When I emerged, the world actually looked a little brighter.  I took off three days during the Labor Day holiday weekend.  I was able to relax…really relax, with no “shoulds” in my mind.  I was pin-perfect focusing, and allowed myself to get off-task (not to be confused with off-track) by just kicking around and seeing some new places and doing spontaneous, random things.  I cannot remember the last time I did that with a clear head, no phone or computer.  My focus was simply to go out and enjoy each and every thing I did.

So my friends, to summarize this off-task rant of mine, I actually did find peace of mind.  

I know, I know….I can apply the methodology, I can teach it, I can write about it. 

But…sometimes you just need to find a new toy to play with.  And so that’s what I am doing.   As I allow time each day for self-hypnosis and reinforcement of my new laser focus skills, I’m finding that each task takes less time.  And I find my work more enjoyable because I’m focused purely on the immediate task, undeterred by others waiting for my attention.  And after completing a work task, I can actually “enjoy” doing my laundry, without the guilt or worry of what I am NOT doing instead.

How about you?  How do you accomplish all those things that you need to do each day without feeling stressed and overwhelmed?  Are you going through task “motions” with distracting thoughts of other things you should be doing?  OR…Are you focusing purely on the task at hand, no matter how important or mundane it might be.

Leave a comment and let me know.

Thanks,
Donna

Donna Merrill
Donna is a well known blogger and creator of "Blogging Magic" - an intensive guide to blogging. "Blogging Magic" is for beginners who are trying to figure out how to bring their blogs to life with tons of visits, comments and social media interaction. It's even for advanced bloggers looking to reach new levels of authority and engagement with their audience.

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56 Responses to Keeping Focused

  1. Lesly Federici
    Twitter:
    September 17, 2012 at 11:02 am #

    Great article Donna,
    I actually use a timer now! It took a long time to get myself in that groove, but I find it to be very helpful. I also focus doing as much as I can during the day before the man and son come home. Then things get kaotic. Self-hypnosis is so powerful and naturally. It’s such a great tool for life/behavior changes. Thanks for sharing such a great article!
    Lesly Federici recently posted..Breaking The Cycle Of Default LivingMy Profile

  2. Jupiter Jim September 13, 2012 at 3:26 am #

    Donna,

    Wow, I am overwhelmed just reading your list! Where did you learn the self-hypnosis? Do you listen to a CD or a tract? Do you hypnotize others as well?

    So do you have a store that sells the stuff you buy and fix up on the weekends? Is that correct?

    I wonder if you use a website or the Internet to find clients for your psychic readings?

    Well, I know how it is to feel overwhelmed with business and sometimes you just need a few days off!

    Thanks for sharing!

    ~ Jupiter Jim

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 13, 2012 at 8:01 pm #

      Hi Jim,

      To answer your question, the link of the self hypnosis downloads are on the next blog!

      I wanted to make sure all was working like clockwork before I revealed it.
      And it is. There is so much to do in a day, but I like to be efficient.

      As for your question of where I find my clients for psychic readings: I’ve been at this for almost 30 years and it is still a word of mouth business. I’m always booked and have so many repeat clients, it astounds me sometimes to see how much they are growing.

      I don’t advertise because I have enough on my plate lol.

      And yes…I do take a few days off, but I know what happens when I get back…hundreds of emails, more syndication, a back up of clients, and I always have part of my day for learning…that gets backed up too.

      What’s a gal to do? lol
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Mind State ChangeMy Profile

  3. Jeevan Jacob John September 10, 2012 at 9:50 am #

    Focus is hard, right?

    Ah, I have had tough times with it. But, I still like it. Always the experiments to see how to get focused.

    I am always experimenting with what I do and what I do (well, I have to, that’s the point with my blog and of course, I have to because my schedule can change in a wild manner :D).

    I have tried to do lists, daily planners, pomodoro technique and many others. All of them are great, really great tools to keep our focus. But, they tend to lose their effectiveness over time (at least for me, it did). As for now, I don’t use any tools, just plain old doing things with a bit of planning – as in assigning Monday as the commenting day :D.

    It’s working great so far (Especially, I since I only blog at college, not at home – so, I have to finish everything up in 2-3 hours per day. Great, so many time for finishing college work, if you ask me :D).

    As with your schedule, it looks hectic 😉 (I have left behind somethings such as podcasting for a while due to my schedule, I can get back to it later, I suppose).

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 13, 2012 at 7:57 pm #

      Jeevan,

      With all you do, especially being a student, I commend you! You always have such interesting blogs and you are a good leader in the field.

      Not many students are so advanced as you are. I am so proud to know you.

      Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Mind State ChangeMy Profile

  4. Alice September 8, 2012 at 8:48 am #

    Hello Donna,

    I no longer write a list…I found that
    I never stuck to the list anyway 🙂

    I guess #1 on my list should have been do
    not forget to do your list lol

    I just keep the most important thing in
    the front of my mind, and that is talking
    to people:)

    I enjoyed your article,

    Alice
    Alice recently posted..Easy Way To Change Color And Font In WordPressMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 8, 2012 at 2:31 pm #

      Hi Alice.

      Oh that list. When I first started training myself to write my list down, I would but then never look at it again lol.

      With all I have to do in one day between talking to people, writing, and marketing, and that doesn’t include all the other stuff, my list is too long.

      I found this technique helpful to me.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Mind State ChangeMy Profile

  5. Leslie Denning
    Twitter:
    September 6, 2012 at 8:35 pm #

    I guess the short answer is, “I don’t!” I’ve been working on getting focused and hope to get better. One thing that I do that is fairly successful is to use a timer. I choose a task to work on for 45 minutes. When the time goes off, I spent 10 or so minutes doing housework. It keeps me from turning to stone in my desk chair and also helps me to clear my mind. I have ‘way more stuff to do than I ever get done, but it keeps me moving forward. My hint for the day. Self-hypnosis is worth a try to me, though. I use that to help me go to sleep some nights. I appreciate your sharing your thoughts.

    All the best,
    Leslie

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 6, 2012 at 11:24 pm #

      Hi Leslie

      I do that time thing also, but I just love this program designed for focus, and the internet marketer.

      There is more info on my next blog!

      Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Mind State ChangeMy Profile

  6. Simmeon September 6, 2012 at 11:15 am #

    Hey Donna,

    I get distracted all of the time, I could visit a blog, reply to a comment. Then visit another blog, watch a video, flick to FB, flick to my blog, start editing a post. An I dip in and out of those things among other unrelated task every day.

    I need to be strict but… Sometimes I just don’t like to follow a rigid structure. I totally get ya.
    Simmeon recently posted..Lacking Engagement and Conversion Through Twitter?My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 6, 2012 at 3:24 pm #

      Hi Simmeon,

      Maybe it’s time to focus on structure. I find that so many internet marketers are so great but start burning out. Or as in your case, get distracted.

      The key point here is to sit down in one sitting and write a blog post. Don’t do anything else unless you have finished it. Same applies to all other things you need to do on your daily list of activities.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Keeping FocusedMy Profile

  7. Ryan Biddulph
    Twitter:
    September 6, 2012 at 9:33 am #

    I find short, frequent meditation breaks to be my savior in this area. I break hourly to sit. After these breaks I have greater clarity, more peace of mind and the creeping feeling of overwhelm dies a quick death. Uncomfy to stick to hourly breaks but I intend to do so, and usually do.

    Today we traveled to Hue, a town in Northern Vietnam. I had folks to speak to on the phone, and after a 4 hour bus ride the internet in our hotel room was out. We patiently waited and the connection went back up. I could move into action…until 10 minutes later when my girlfriend’s computer died. Finito. Time for a new one.

    2 hours later we have a new computer and camera. I’ve achieved a fraction of what I normally do, and still have my live webinar to set up for tomorrow morning, and a blog post to write and publish…but I feel fine. I know all is fine, and will continue to be fine. Always was, always will be 😉

    Thanks Donna!

    RB
    Ryan Biddulph recently posted..Internet Marketing Training – 3 Simple Steps to Grow Your List with BloggingMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 6, 2012 at 3:18 pm #

      Hey Ryan,

      I like your mindset. You have successfully accomplished working with peace of mind. That is so important. Taking things in stride and meditating in between tasks surely helps focusing!

      Thanks for your input. I am sure my readers will find this truly beneficial.

      Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Keeping FocusedMy Profile

  8. Damayanthi September 5, 2012 at 8:17 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    I loved reading this & I can relate to what you are saying.

    Well I don’t have so many things to do like you, but I lose my focus all the time.
    Sometimes I start second guessing my priorities on my list of things to do. This is mainly due to internal distractions.

    REcently I found that I couldn’t even focus for 50min on one task, so I started using pomodoro technique where I breakdown tasks to 25min blocks and take 5min break. Then take a 30min break after 4, 25min blocks of focused sessions. Right now that helps me because I use that 30min break to do recovery exercises for my shoulder.

    I do agree with Oliver, yes I need to clean up some online distractions as well.

    Thanks for sharing.

    Damayanthi
    Damayanthi recently posted..One Simple Technique To Fight Your Bulging Email InboxMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 6, 2012 at 3:11 pm #

      Hi Damayanthi

      I use Pomodoro too! The technique is wonderful and it keeps us sitting there until the task is done.

      What I have learned goes way beyond that because everything I’m doing now is with pleasure. Even my laundry lol

      Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Keeping FocusedMy Profile

    • Steve Borgman September 8, 2012 at 8:39 am #

      Hello, Damayanthi and Donna: I also use the Pomodoro technique! I love it. I also have used Simpleology (free version) to make sure I’m working on the most important things first. But my reality most often reflects what you wrote about, Donna 🙂 It really is a challenge. I’d like to hear more about your self-hypnosis and meditation process, Donna!

      • Donna Merrill
        Twitter:
        September 8, 2012 at 2:29 pm #

        Hi Steve,

        If you want to find out more, hit up my next post! I love the pomodoro technique, but this is making me go faster without any distraction. I not only focused, but it is an enjoyable experience.

        I sit in front of my computer and voila…words flow better – I’m more focused but best of all, each task became more enjoyable.

        -Donna
        Donna Merrill recently posted..Mind State ChangeMy Profile

  9. Nick Catricala September 5, 2012 at 8:04 pm #

    Hello Donna..
    well you just put me into shame with your great, long and etailed post here.. why? Because when I read the list, I say to my self, I can do that! THEN… when I continue reading all the REST of what you normally do, how many things you have to take care and so many places that you vist and so on.. I tell you.. I lmost had to cover my face for shame.

    Here I am a retired man, running my small home-based coaching business a few hours a day and lots, lots time onmy hands… and I truy do not know how to pack al what you do in between…

    In short Donna, now you will have another name… Super Donna haha :-0

    Thanks for sharing all what you do and how you manage to do it… and I love to say.. keep on doing it till your heart is into it… because once it is not there.. well, you will not be able to do them any longer.

    Really enjoyed reading.. so do not feel bad about me, ok?

    Warmly.
    nickc
    Nick Catricala recently posted..Ego Management to WinMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 6, 2012 at 3:09 pm #

      Oh Nick,
      You write the most flattering comments. Thank you so much for visiting.

      Everything I do is from my heart. Maybe my heart is too big? lol

      Thanks for calling me Super Donna Ha Ha….
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Keeping FocusedMy Profile

  10. Tim Bonner September 5, 2012 at 2:55 pm #

    Hey Donna

    That is one hefty schedule you have there!

    I know exactly where you are coming from though.

    After moving house just last Monday, I found myself much less focussed and more distracted than I’ve ever been before.

    I struggled to get my first post written after the move and I’m only just getting around to visiting the usual blogs I like to hang out at.

    Moving house was stressful so I’m gradually easing myself back into things.

    I didn’t have internet access for the first couple of days but since then motivation has been at rock bottom.

    But I feel like I’m on my way back now and getting into a routine again.

    I’m glad you took that time out to focus and that this has helped you work through it and come out the other side!

    I hope you’re having a great week.

    Tim
    Tim Bonner recently posted..Keep Your Nose Clean With This Piece Of Blogging AdviceMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 5, 2012 at 3:55 pm #

      Hi Tim,

      I think you need to take the time out and “settle in” and focus on that. Sometimes we need to take that break when changes occur in our life such as moving. Moving is very high on the stress list. So don’t feel the least bit guilty about your blog or anything else.

      There is a time for everything. Settle in, relax and enjoy your new surroundings. When you have done all that, you will have a clear sight!

      Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Keeping FocusedMy Profile

  11. Carol Lynn September 5, 2012 at 10:44 am #

    Oh boy, now there’s an issue that hits home! I have so many things to do and so many that I want to do that sometimes I feel like my brain is scattered all over the place. For me the biggest challenge is working on balancing the production tasks I have to do every day – building websites, writing, sending out email campaigns, managing clients – and the things I need to do for my business – marketing, networking, prospecting – and “wish list” stuff like that book I keep wanting to write and new things I want to learn.

    Sometimes I think I’m bad at time management and sometimes I’m pretty sure that even if there were 106 hours in a day it would still not be enough!

    I haven’t tried anything like self-hypnosis but if it involves going into a cave and not coming out for three days I think I could get behind it, lol!

    Usually the way I re-focus is to make a long list (a bit like you did) of everything that has to get done. I write it big on my whiteboard and then start at the top and cross things off as I go. It feels good to have a lot of lines through things at the end of a day!
    Carol Lynn recently posted..Five Steps To A Memorable TaglineMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 5, 2012 at 3:47 pm #

      Hi Carol Lynn!

      I think it is the greatest feeling in the world when we cross things off our list. You seem busy yourself. But hey aren’t we all when running our own business.

      People talk of delegating but how much can you really do that when you are a writer? Hmmm As I said before, I tried it once and it took more time to teach another person what to do with those little tasks than ever.

      As for the self-hypnosis I’m doing. Easy…I don’t have time to sit for 20 minutes and do this, so I incorporate it as I do many things. I go to bed a half hour BEFORE I get tired. I listen to a 20 minute session…voila…the next day I see a change in my behavior.

      When I am finished with this entire program and it proves to me that it works well, I will share.

      Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Keeping FocusedMy Profile

  12. Sandeep Kumar September 5, 2012 at 4:15 am #

    Hi Donna….
    It seems that you and me have lots of similar task to do.
    I am following all your task related to blogging.
    I have my day job as well so I have to put most of my time into that as well.
    Apart from it i have 6 month old daughter and she wants me to play with her all the time and I am unable to ignore her. She is my angel.

    My day schedule is also very tight. 9 AM to 7 PM office then my daughter and family.
    Then from 10 PM to till 2 AM I’ll spent my time in blogging world and then sleeping time.

    Thanks for sharing your schedule.
    Sandeep Kumar recently posted..What is Keyword – basic understanding of KeywordsMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 5, 2012 at 3:38 pm #

      Hi Sandeep,

      I see your schedule is a very important one, especially with your little angel. I have found that people with day jobs and children really climb the ladder very fast when they are doing what you are.

      You my friend are creating what I call “the back door” – Although you have that job of yours, you are creating your financial freedom. Once you start making more money than your job…well you know what will happen. Then you will have more time for your little angel.

      Good luck to you my friend,
      Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Keeping FocusedMy Profile

  13. Ken Pickard September 5, 2012 at 3:40 am #

    Donna,

    Wow you sound like me…lost of irons in the fire and all of them equally important for different reasons. But i love the fact that you have found a center with self hypnosis. And I would expect nothing less.

    I have found the overwhelm thing to be quite a pain and it rears it’s head now and again, but the victories combat this feeling every time. it’s only when we loose sight of our objectives that we mindlessly wonder…staring into the computer as if it will magically do the work for us.

    A recent conversation with a friend yielded a more simplistic approach to what I do and why. And that’s making a big difference with my work load. Thanks for shedding some light on how you create that balanced lifestyle.

    Ken Pickard
    The Network Dad
    Ken Pickard recently posted..Mindset Monday – The Journey is the DestinationMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 5, 2012 at 3:35 pm #

      Hey Ken,
      Good to see you here. Thanks for the informative comment. I did all my “mindset” work. In fact I took 40 hours of it and applied it and I still do. I also have taken Time management courses and apply that also.

      But what I found was that missing link of the Subconscious. I worked with my subconscious before in my Mindset Meetings, and it has been working.

      But of course, I like to be superwoman and needed more, so I am currently working with this program. When I am finished and see the results 100% I would share it with all.

      Thanks,
      Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Keeping FocusedMy Profile

  14. Elaine Horner September 4, 2012 at 6:45 pm #

    Donna, you have a very busy life and so many irons in the fire.
    You ask the question, “How do you . . .”
    I view my day somewhat like an hour glass. As we go about doing the tasks at hand which are stored in the top of the hour glass I visualize only ONE GRAIN OF SAND can pass through at a time. To me this means all the other stuff calling or demanding of me must wait in line while I complete the task at hand.
    Also within a task, I break it down to separate activities that need to be done to complete each individual task.
    This mind set gives me focus on the opportunity at hand.
    I do believe I have more than one hour glass going at a time sometimes, but with this mindset, whatever I am working on,this method gives me focus.
    Elaine Horner recently posted..Why You Should Build This Business!My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 5, 2012 at 3:29 pm #

      Thanks Elaine,

      I’m going to borrow that visualization of the hourglass… Sounds great!
      Also, thank you for sharing your thoughts on this. It was very helpful.

      Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Keeping FocusedMy Profile

  15. Patricia Gozlan September 4, 2012 at 5:26 pm #

    Hi Donna, I love your list because by reading it I can see you running form one activity to the other! I wonder why you exercise after running so much, just kidding! I think that the key to avoid overwhelm and stress is to take one step at the time and say no to some stuff that can wait. It is always about eating small bites of the elephant and enjoying the ride!delegating is another way to do so and saying No to what you do not feel like doing and say Yes to what you love gives time energy and results!I speak about this in my last video and post LOLAmazing how women insist to do 1000 things per day and then complain they have no time for themselves;))

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 4, 2012 at 6:44 pm #

      ha ha Patricia!

      I did insist on do 1000 things per day, then I didn’t complain, but rather got overwhelmed. I know how to apply techniques of Overwhelm, time management, etc. But now….I am working on my subconscious. Woo Hoo It is working great so far.

      Thanks Patricia
      Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Keeping FocusedMy Profile

  16. Joe Seals September 4, 2012 at 4:52 pm #

    Hey Donna,

    Thanks for this information. I don’t have anything in place at the moment. But I need something. Today is my birthday and my gift was that someone told the San Diego City school district to start school today. This summer I decided to stay home (Daddy Daycare) with the kids and have a fun filled summer, and it was. But now that it is over I need to get back into the swing of things and a To-Do-List is the way to go.

    Thanks for this post.

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 4, 2012 at 6:41 pm #

      Hey Joe,

      Party’s over Eh? Now it’s time to take that to-do list and apply it. Good luck with everything.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Keeping FocusedMy Profile

  17. Gen September 4, 2012 at 2:58 pm #

    Hi Donna, I too have had the problem of getting everything done and like you it because I just have so much going on. I read you list and thought that is just the way it is with those of us that succeed. We are super busy, but we find the time and we focus to get the most important things done.

    It is important to have some way to focus and some people have great success with self hypnosis. I would love to do something like that, but there is never quite in my house. So I just have to go with my list. My list is my best friend. Because I know what are my must does and my what I would like to does.
    Gen recently posted..Meet Sunshine!My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 4, 2012 at 3:52 pm #

      Ahh Lists do work Gen.

      For me it was getting out of control, so I decided to take my Mp player to bed with me. An hour before I sleep I listen to it. Sometimes I fall asleep with it and maybe that is how it is working so well he he.

      We all need time for ourselves. You as a mom, businesswoman and everything else in life, it is a difficult time in your life right now to make that time.

      When I was raising my daughter, I made time in a “pretend” bath if I wanted to do something like this. She accepted that “bath” time was private time. So it all worked out well.

      Keep to that list!
      Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Keeping FocusedMy Profile

  18. Shiwangi peswani September 4, 2012 at 2:55 pm #

    Hey Dona your posts are always nice and inspiring. Seeing your post and your to-do list I am inspired and will make such list again.
    Yeah (AGAIN)
    Made such lists so many time but never stuck to them. I actually have a very low patience level and thus get distracted, unfocused, and frustrated soon.
    need lot more to learn and to follow moreover.
    Shiwangi peswani recently posted..Best iPad Apps For New iPad 3 With Retina DisplayMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 4, 2012 at 3:44 pm #

      Hi Shiwangi

      When I finish this entire series, I will be letting people know about it. I do have to finish it before I introduce it to others. I never suggest anything I haven’t tried.

      There are many ways not to get overwhelmed. I’ve gone through so many myself. Now I’m mastering my sub-conscious mind.

      Good seeing you again,
      Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Keeping FocusedMy Profile

  19. Alicia September 4, 2012 at 2:19 pm #

    I am usually focused but I do get distracted with having 3 kids in the house and you try to concentrate and they are hollering and wanting this and that. They start fighting etc… Then I thought when the kids go to school I have time ok well that works pretty good
    but Hubby is home and if he’s awake it’s hard sometimes depending on what he’s doing and then my 3yr old can be a little too at times.If she has something to watch then she’s fine. Sometimes she has her days!!

    I really try and i don’t worry about the house too much! I try to do that when the kids get home from school and it’s crazy around here after they first get home!!

    Ok i think I wrote enough mine could be a blog too!! LOL

    Alicia

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 4, 2012 at 4:14 pm #

      Hi Alicia,

      Three kids can be a strain. Trying to give them time and run your business can put a limit on what you are doing. But I don’t seem to see that with you.

      I don’t know how you do it, but you blog all the time! You have recently jumped into this game and are learning in light speed.

      I say KUDOS to you girl for having the stamina to do so.

      Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Keeping FocusedMy Profile

  20. Mys Palmer September 4, 2012 at 12:58 pm #

    Donna, I’ve missed your rants! I’m finally getting some normalcy back after my move to Atlanta and participating on my fav blogs and groups. LOVE this post because, well, damn it it’s true! We are always so “on” so full of having no time that we really lose focus and become less productive by being complicated. Glad you simplified things up. I’m not a holiday person so eh. But I’m taking a page from your book and exploring my new city this weekend for no reason at all. Have a great week Donna!
    Mys Palmer recently posted..Most Effective Outline for Easily Writing Killer Blogs PostsMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 4, 2012 at 2:06 pm #

      Good for you! Explore that new city of yours and take the time out to enjoy it. I’ve never been there, but I have heard that it is awesome. My daughter has been there several times and fell in love with it.

      There is always so much to do, unpack slowly and enjoy each moment of your life.

      Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Keeping FocusedMy Profile

  21. Steve Vernon September 4, 2012 at 12:54 pm #

    There is something to be said about taking a Sabbath. I don’t mean this in a religious way, but in a very practical way, as you have described here, Donna. The fact that the writer of Genesis included the idea that God rested after doing all that creation is meant to set a precedent for the rest of us. When we constantly feel like we have to accomplish just one more thing before we can take time away, or feel guilty when we DO take time off, it’s a known fact that we end up accomplishing less. I used to be much better about that than I am these days. Your post was a much needed reminder that I need to start doing that very thing once again.
    Steve Vernon recently posted..Where Are You Going?My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 4, 2012 at 1:56 pm #

      Thank you Steve,

      It is true – there must be a time for rest. I was all bungled up during the past few months accomplishing things. But what I realized was that I was not at my ultimate productivity level.

      Working on my subconscious when I’m awake and when I am sleeping has really got me focused!

      Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Keeping FocusedMy Profile

  22. Harleena Singh
    Twitter:
    September 4, 2012 at 12:36 pm #

    We can all so well relate to your list Donna!

    I guess most of us have a similar ‘to-do’ never ending list, which we keep trying to accomplish, but something or the other does take a back seat if we aren’t really focused and follow our normal routine and schedule.

    Speaking of which, I have a full-fledged family with two teenagers to look after, and my in-laws who stay with us too. So, time is surely an issue my end, yet we need to take out the time to do the things that are required – isn’t it?

    But yes, weekends are the days to switch off, yet one can’t completely vanish! We need to strike a balance between work and family I guess and see that nothing suffers. 🙂

    Thanks for sharing and reminding all of us about how we need to accomplish our work without really greeting stressed out. 🙂
    Harleena Singh recently posted..Are You a Love TeacherMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 4, 2012 at 1:41 pm #

      Oh my Harleena,

      Teens and in-laws? That does take a lot of time and can be stressful. I think the term they use now is the “sandwich generation” whereby people deal with their parents and children at the same time.

      It must take a lot of balance to do this. My kids are grown and out of the house. I took care of my In-Laws for the past few years. Last year I had my father-in-law living with us under hospice care for 7 months. That was a doozie! My husband and I were totally focused on him 24/7 as health care providers. He was like a 165 pound baby. But, he was terrified of hospitals and we respected his needs. That meant putting our life on hold.

      I am thankful for the experience because it taught me how the life cycle really is. Also, in our culture, people are put in nursing homes. We decided not to.

      We had to juggle our business and care take at the same time. But we did it.

      Thank you for sharing your story,
      Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Keeping FocusedMy Profile

  23. Adrienne
    Twitter:
    September 4, 2012 at 11:49 am #

    I’m with Sue here Donna, you wore me out reading everything that you do. Dang girl, my head is spinning.

    Now I only have one child and I’m so blessed that she doesn’t shed a lot. I do take her out four times a day and the last time is on our evening walk. She does love to play too so I break in mid morning to chase her around the house. She’s so much fun.

    Now I don’t have all the side projects you have or a psychic business and I also don’t have that spouse to consider either. Yeah, I kind of got it made over here I would say but I have caught myself working online way too many hours because like you, I want to respond to all my comments yet visit their blogs as well. That’s becoming dang near a full time job in itself.

    Now I do have to take care of my money making efforts with my affiliate sales as well so sometimes there aren’t enough hours in the day. My house is small so cleaning isn’t a major chore although it does take time. I’ll do that on the weekends though.

    You do have a very full schedule but am glad this recent three day weekend helped you get things more clear. We would hate to lose you online here my friend so glad you’re able to make it all work.

    Have a great week.

    ~Adrienne
    Adrienne recently posted..Why You Should Not Feel Guilty On HolidaysMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 4, 2012 at 12:24 pm #

      Hey Adrienne,

      Thanks for sharing. I did forget two things, my husband and my properties. But my husband helps out so much and is my second half of my brain sometimes. He splits chores with me …. well almost. But he does take care of the properties.

      Those tenants can be a problem. The last time I took over that job I was like Mussolini giving a speech on the terrace to lousy tenants. I get all fired up when I’m giving so much to a tenant and they just trash the place or do something stupid.

      Ergo…that became David’s job because he is so easy when it comes to communicating to those tenants. Guess that’s why I forgot to mention those two. lol

      Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Keeping FocusedMy Profile

  24. Sylviane Nuccio
    Twitter:
    September 4, 2012 at 11:07 am #

    Ah Donna, we have so much in common. My to do list looks just about the same as yours for start.

    Then I do have to spend about 6 hours of my day doing my writing for my clients and I also get a coaching client here and there, and that’s growing and needs to.

    Then, I also have a furry daughter (my kitty Sophie) who I love and put ahead of my own needs, just because 🙂 She needs to be brushed, fed, litter box changed, and just paid attention to on a daily baisis.

    Then, I do need to do my work out. I go do my walk/run every day to the park which takes me around one and a half to two hours all together…

    And, I can’t stand livning in a messy or dirty house so I do spend a few hours weekly, cleaning 🙂 too!

    Yes, our life is busy and for the life of me I want to laugh when I hear some people say, “I’m bored”. Those words haven’t come out of my month for decadeds. As a matter of fact, I don’t know they since I am an adult.

    Thank you for sharing all that, Donna 🙂
    Sylviane Nuccio recently posted..How Can You Attract More Business – Part ThreeMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 4, 2012 at 12:18 pm #

      Sylviane,

      Thank you for sharing. I don’t feel so alone now. I forgot to put in the part where I have several investment houses. Oh my…so much to do right?

      Our fuzzy friends do take the lead in our lives. But I’ve been working on my subconscious – and you of all people should know how that works! And I’m finding that I have been programming myself to do each task without worrying about another.

      Thanks for visiting,
      Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Keeping FocusedMy Profile

  25. Brenda
    Twitter:
    September 4, 2012 at 6:27 am #

    I can relate to all you wrote here, but I guess that is what makes us human. We have times when we become distracted and have so many things on our to-do lists. This is when our \”focus cave\” is such a good place to go, or even a time when we just need to have some \”me-time\”.Thanks for sharing with such honesty.

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 4, 2012 at 4:12 pm #

      Hi Brenda,
      I wrote this because I wanted to share that there was more than a to-do list and time management to deal with. That is all working with our conscious mind.

      I love to work with the subconscious mind as well. Putting more energy there has really done a wold of good for me.

      Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Keeping FocusedMy Profile

  26. Oliver Tausend September 4, 2012 at 5:37 am #

    Hi Donna,

    thanks for sharing your insights. Wow, you have definitely a lot of stuff on the plate, amazing. I admire you for managing all that.

    It seems that we can focus on a lot of things, but not at the same time and only if we give ourselves a rest as well, to calm down the body, the spirit and the mind.

    Most people make a decisive mistake: They organize and prioritize the tasks they think they have to do because they’ve always done them. Doesn’t it make more sense to subtract those tasks first that aren’t useful or not useful anymore and the organize the remaining ones that are truly important ?

    An example for that is cleaning house and getting rid of some social media accounts. I did so, and I know you too, with Pinterest for example. For me, it’s gone for now.

    Take care

    Oliver

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 4, 2012 at 11:46 am #

      Yes Oliver,

      It is major “clean up” for me these days. With so much on my plate and trying to organize in a conscious manner, it just wasn’t working. So, I tapped into my good old subconscious mind and I am seeing the rate of tasks excel.

      Yes, I had to let go of Pinterest too. There is only so much you can farm out to people. But, I like to do my own original work.

      Thanks for your input,
      Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Keeping FocusedMy Profile

  27. Khaja moin September 4, 2012 at 5:25 am #

    Hi Donna,

    Seems you have lot of work to handle in a day.
    Did you every thought of wish to have a day more than 24 hours.

    And I like that you spend lot of time for reading.
    Khaja moin recently posted..5 Proven Ways of Internal Linking to Increase Page ViewsMy Profile

  28. Sue Price
    Twitter:
    September 3, 2012 at 11:09 pm #

    Hi Donna

    I feel exhausted reading what you do! Just joking 🙂

    Your online list was no surprise and I know you are a psychic but I did not know the antique part. You are very diversified in your interests and that is great.

    Oh yes dogs do not wait. I only have one who is almost 17 so slowed down but if she wants attentions she wants it!

    I have a cleaner come once a fortnight. When I traveled with business when my daughter was young we had a nanny/housekeeper. I hardly know how to turn on the vacuum cleaner and I like it like that.

    I have what seems to be an ever expanding “to do” list and it can be overwhelming if I let it, but I don’t. I just do what I can get done.
    Oh and exercise is a must for me. It helps my focus.

    Thanks for sharing more about your life Donna. I enjoyed it.

    Sue
    Sue Price recently posted..Passive Income – from Work you DoMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 3, 2012 at 11:57 pm #

      Thanks Sue,

      I wish I can have a cleaning person in my home. It is always a disaster with the dogs…PLUS..We all have to leave and two of them get car sick. So I have to leave it up to David and I.

      There is so much to do in a day, that I was loosing focus. But my self-hypnosis exercises are helping so much.

      Thanks for visiting,
      Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Keeping FocusedMy Profile

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