Introduction
This period is a busy one here at NSC42, and when it is like this, it’s difficult to keep the focus on the critical tasks.
In stressful periods is essential to have a task-list at hand and stay disciplined by going through the list point by point.
Tips
Plan your day
That means you can get up and get started right away instead of frittering or wasting time. I’ve used several apps for to do lists and tasks and the best I’ve found are TO-DOist and Things.
Decide on your priorities
Always do the most important things or the most challenging things first otherwise, those tasks will niggle at you constantly and slowly drain away your energy.
Avoid multitasking
When you’re working on something important, it is essential that you don't multitask because it will take your mind off the job in hand. However, it’s good to multitask when we’re doing menial, repetitive and boring tasks.
Ditch unimportant tasks
Don't waste your time on things that don't matter, so don't get involved in pointless conversations or email tennis.
Commit to NOT procrastinating
It's so easy to procrastinate, which is just a way of putting off the inevitable so if you can't hold hold yourself accountable by reviewing your tasks regularly then ask a friend or colleague to make sure you stay on track.
Be organised
This includes engaging in advanced planning; knowing what you need for the task; having everything you need close at hand; bundling similar functions together, and working in a relatively tidy and clutter-free environment
Cut out distractions Avoid time wasters (social media, cell phones, highly social or demanding people etc.)Know what your most productive time of day is and treat that as a sacrosanct period for working.
Get into the habit of shutting off racing, distracting and negative thoughts. This is a crucial form of self-discipline. Break large tasks down into smaller sub-tasks — and set achievable deadlines for these.
Conclusions
There is no perfect formula for discipline, productivity and focus. Sometimes one or more of the above points work sometimes nothing does. The important thing is to be consistent, disciplined and honest with yourself.
In the morning paint a picture in your head and focus on the objective for the day. In the evening review, what have you achieved and focus on the positives first.
When nothing works it's worth keeping in mind that our brain is like a muscle and sometimes it just needs a break.
In those kinds of situations, I like to take a few minutes, meditate, go for a walk, listen to my favourite song…really do whatever works for you.
The important thing is to avoid straining your mind and force yourself to disconnect from the burning fire, release the tension and go back with a fresh mindset.
This article is a bit different from my usual one, let me know if you liked it and if the steps helped you.
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Infosec CyberSecurity
Cybersecurity Consultancy London Based
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