When it comes to being self-employed, there’s something about staying on task. Whether working from a coffee shop, working while having littles at your feed, or finding yourself in a coworking space, there are always distractions. How do you stay on task when it seems that there are loads of items pulling you? From prioritizing social media engagement, researching blog growth, or responding to client emails, there always seems to be a notification going off on my phone or screen and endless tasks to accomplish. How do you stay on task as an entrepreneur?

Keep reading for these 5 ways to stay focused! 

Plan blocks of time to complete work.

With balancing multiple deadlines, I work best in large blocks of time. I usually plan out my week on Sunday evenings. In my planner you find a to-do list, that is scheduled out units of time. This allows me to focus on large projects and break them down into tasks that can be accomplished in 2-3 hours. If I don’t get a task completed, I take a small break and the task rolls over into the next unit of time.

Find ways to block out noise.

Since working in a downtown area and facing a window, I always maintain focus when I set the scene. This means my desk is organized and clean, the trash is taken out, and my earbuds are in with my favorite music on. Lately, I purchased iBeats noise-cancelling earbuds and they’re a game changer. While small in profile, they’re effective and affordable.

Set times to engage and contribute to social media.

I completely understand the need to engage and contribute to social media. As a blogger, I’m always trying to grow the engagement and driving traffic back to the blog. However, if I’m not engaging on social media or contributing content, what’s the point?  I set times throughout the day to engage with social media. I love living my life, being present with those I love, and need margin in my life to create. Spending most of my days trolling the Internet,  can often stifle the creative process, rather than move me forward. My set times to engage on social media are 9 AM, noon, 5 PM, and 9 PM.

Turn your phone screen face down. 

This is super practical, but necessary. I turn my phone upside down when I’m focusing on tasks. A flashing screen and constant text messages is hard to ignore. Flip your screen over and find a fresh focus.

Know when to go analog.

I find that some of my best thinking for design work and clients actually happens when I’m away from my screen. It could be a brainstorming session and conversation with a friend. I also have come to adore writing copy and strategy sessions on the large whiteboard in our workspace. It allows me to visualize, be kinesthetic as I’m working, and play with diction when writing. Sketching logos in my moleskine and jotting down potential blog post ideas are some of my most effective ways of coming up with original content.

What are some of the ways you stay focused as an entrepreneur?