Learning Corner: Protecting Focus Time
Estimated Time to Complete: 20 minutes
Objective:
To set up protected focus blocks for yourself and model the habit for your team.
Materials Needed:
Your calendar for next week
Notification settings on your phone and computer
Activity Steps:
1. Find your best hours (5 minutes)
Think about when you do your clearest thinking. Morning, mid-day or late afternoon?
2. Block two focus sessions (5 minutes)
Put two 90-minute blocks on your calendar next week during those hours. Give them a name that tells people what you're working on.
3. Set up your space (5 minutes)
Plan what you'll turn off during focus time: email alerts, chat, phone. Let your team know when you'll be back online.
4. Share the idea (5 minutes)
Invite your team to block their own focus time, and agree as a group to respect each other's blocks.
Key Takeaways:
Deep work needs protected time.
Turning off alerts for a set period is easier than trying to ignore them.
When leaders protect focus time, teams feel permission to do the same.
Reflection Prompt:
How many uninterrupted hours did you have last week? What would two more do for your best work?
Want help bringing this to your team? Book a free 30-minute conversation with Tony.
