Your attention determines the experiences you have, and the experiences you have determines the life you live. Or said another way: you must control your attention to improve your business.
To be consistently productive we must strengthen our skill in attention management. Attention management is the practice of controlling distractions, being present in the moment, and maximizing focus, so that you can unleash your genius. It’s about being intentional instead of reactive. It is the ability to recognize when your attention is being stolen (or has the potential to be stolen) and to instead keep it focused on the activities you choose. Rather than allowing distractions to derail you, you choose where you direct your attention at any given moment, based on an understanding of your priorities and goals.
Better attention management leads to improved productivity, but it’s about much more than checking things off a to-do list. The ultimate result is the ability to create a life of choice, around things that are important to you. It’s more than just exercising focus. It’s about taking back control over your time and your priorities.
Adapted HBR Mar 2018 Thomas