How Can I stay Focused... MY ADHD IS ACTING UP AGAIN!!! LOL

30 replies
Hey all, thanks in advance for commenting, I am having difficulty with focusing on Money Making Activities. I tend to go off in a tangent and start watching videos and stuff. The worst part is I know what I am doing, I am just having a hard time focusing. Everywhere I look in this business there is new shiny objects, Videos, Webinars, Podcasts, TV Shows, WebCasts... I can go on and on and on.

I sometimes think I will go mad (crazy)... What can I do to focus, what helps you focus and how can I avoid this problem. Its like VIRTUAL ADHD!!!!


AHHHHHH!! OH LOOK A BIRD! LOL Thanks for your replys

Cheers,

Alex
#acting #adhd #focused #lol #stay
  • Profile picture of the author Patrick Batty
    Hey Alex..
    I here ya.

    I've suffered from this quite a bit, and in fact I tend to think a lot of people go through it. But you really have to get a handle on it, or you just won't make any real progress.

    In Internet Marketing it's a real problem.

    The problem with hanging around with good marketers is .. well, they're good marketers.

    I wrote about this on my website in 2 articles: Internet Marketing Productivity and The Biggest Internet Marketing Secret

    Too many tasks or too many projects, or even too many tools, WSOs, courses etc. only serve to de-focus and really will sabotage your efforts.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6035030].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Bobdarko
    putting things off and actually taking action is difficult. I know the feeling! You really have to find a comfortable space and knuckle down. Set yourself daily goals. I,e write 2 articles, set up my new theme, do a video. These goals will be your motivation. Focus on how good it will feel if you finish these goals! Set yourself a goal today to write down on paper 10 things you need to be done by this time next week. Do it right now!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6035206].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author YasirYar
    Hey Alex, trust me this is a problem for a LOT of people. Most people new to the field of making money online really struggle with keeping their focus intact. Make sure you do not start too many projects at once since that is the number one cause of loss of focus in internet marketing , in my opinion. Make lists of stuff you're supposed to do daily, so that you are motivated to do them. Besides that, stay strong
    Signature

    >>>Get your websites ACTUALLY ranked by checking these out: Quantum SEO Labs, Home Page Link Building & SERP Ability. Want to get rid of negative listings? Check out Reputation Enhancer.

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6035213].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Gerald Arno
    Banned
    That's a problem that a lot of people struggle with, not just you.

    If you work online there are two types of distractions.. online distractions and offline distractions.

    Under online distractions follows everything such as Youtube, the web, social media sites, instant messanger, email, etc.

    Under offline distractions follows everything such as your cell phone, spouse, pets, a messy desk, kids, etc.

    You need to become more disciplined and aware about how you work while you are online.

    Set aside certain times where you intend to do your work. Talk yourself into being focused during the hours you work, and don't get distracted too easily.

    Focus is a key element to success in your online business.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6035299].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Onora Oz
    It's buggin', isn't it?

    Breathe. Clean your mind. Get some pen and paper. Write down your goals. Write down an action plan. Stick post-its on your computer with your to-do lists on them.

    Go out. Exercise.

    Think of these shiny objects as a big hurricane. Once you're in, you won't come out in one piece.

    If you have serious but I mean really serious problems with your focus, see your doctor. Most people have those problems, but it's the norm nowadays, I guess.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6035362].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author tantivy
      you're not alone alex. i too suffer from lack of focus. if you are distracted by watching too many videos and other stuff, mine is reading too much blogs about getting high traffic. if I had spent those times writing backlinks and articles they may have brought some real traffic to my site. i guess planning your daily tasks is necessary.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6035439].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author IMMer1975
        We all know the feeling - and there's actually a lot to be said from jumping around from one thing to another as you see and learn a not. Of course, you do want to end up having your own product/service etc.

        So, the best way is to start at looking at the Forrest and then the Trees.

        What is your primary goal (Forrest)? For example "I want to have an info product consisting of 2 ebooks and 5 videos"

        When do you want to start selling it? 3 months from now

        Now you can plan out your work:

        April 13-16: Research and purchase domain name
        April 16-18: Install WP and select theme. Start draft of sales page
        April 18-30: Write content of ebook 1. also outsource some article writing.
        etc etc

        Obviously my example is made up here, but very quickly you'll get focused and on target.

        Good luck!
        Signature

        Pssst...want to learn how to build marketing funnels in Mautic marketing automation to propel online conversions?

        Or are you interested in learning Wordpress? Check out my free video courses here. Taken by over 25,000 students on Udemy.

        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6035498].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author Alex Guzman
          Originally Posted by cdutoit View Post

          We all know the feeling - and there's actually a lot to be said from jumping around from one thing to another as you see and learn a not. Of course, you do want to end up having your own product/service etc.

          So, the best way is to start at looking at the Forrest and then the Trees.

          What is your primary goal (Forrest)? For example "I want to have an info product consisting of 2 ebooks and 5 videos"

          When do you want to start selling it? 3 months from now

          Now you can plan out your work:

          April 13-16: Research and purchase domain name
          April 16-18: Install WP and select theme. Start draft of sales page
          April 18-30: Write content of ebook 1. also outsource some article writing.
          etc etc

          Obviously my example is made up here, but very quickly you'll get focused and on target.

          Good luck!
          Love this method here. Thanks for posting this. Thanks for all who posted.
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6039154].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author IMHunter
    Plan your tasks
    Set Up Hourly, Daily and Weekly Goals
    No matter what you have to complete those goals in that specific time.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6035572].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author cnagaraj
    Hi Alex,

    It all boils down to your self discipline.

    Training and control of oneself and one's conduct, can be a very difficult taunting task.

    Pick one goal, break it down into short term goals and dissect it.

    Create Daily activities to accomplish your goal.

    Utilize a checklist.

    This is your Money Making Activities.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6035703].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author johan_malmo
    Hi, I don't think there is anyone in this forum that hasnt experienced what you're doing first hand! That's the way it is and I wish I could tell "Do this, do that" but I can't, cuz I'm doing it my self... Great responses in here, please let us know if you you out here have the ultimate plan
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6035738].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Eduard Stinga
    I have found that drinking coffee before (or during) the work I do on my business helps me focus better
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6035856].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author angela99
    Alex, I'm a Gemini (butterfly mind), so I do understand where you're coming from.

    Here's what works for me:

    * A daily task list

    * A timer

    Here's a little more detail.

    1. Your daily task list

    I use (Mac) http://culturedcode.com/things/ as my task manager. Everything in my life is in Things.

    Each day, I have between 10 and 20 things to do. I grab a sticky note, and choose the TOP 3 things I must do. Just three. :-)

    I find that if I stare at the 20 things in my Today list, and commit to doing them all, I freak out. I procrastinate. What will I do first? What's most important? Should I do X first, or Y first... and on, and on. I get so overwhelmed that I open my iPad and read a novel on my Kindle app. Not good.

    With just 3 things on my sticky note however (and just 25 minutes to spend on each), I no longer freak out. I CAN DO THIS! I realize. I (and you) can do any task, no matter how boring/ teeth-grindingly horrible for 25 minutes.

    Then I open my Timer. I use Repeat Timer Pro - Repeating Interval Timer for iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, iPod touch (3rd generation), iPod touch (4th generation) and iPad on the iTunes App Store

    2. Your timer

    A timer's essential if you have a tendency toward butterfly mind, or if you get bored easily. If you're on Windows, just Google "free timer Windows".

    I set Repeat Timer Pro for 25 minutes for all tasks. If I'm working on an ebook, I set the timer to repeat the 25 minutes, with a 5 minute break to go and get more coffee in between.

    If I HATE a task, like getting stuff ready for my accountant, let's say, I set the timer for just 5 minutes. You can stand anything for 5 minutes.

    Remember, you only have to do THREE tasks, not 20, or however many you have scheduled.

    Making just 3 tasks "MUSTS" is a psychological trick. I know it, but it nevertheless works. Most days, I manage to clear my entire Today list in Things. But just knowing that I don't have to do it -- I can do whatever I like once the 3 tasks are done, is hugely freeing.

    I'm a productivity nut. I constantly tinker with my workflow. Of course, getting the right stuff on your task list is essential. Make sure you have GOALS which motivate you. Plan to achieve those goals. You don't need to know exactly how you'll reach a goal, you just need to be able to see the next step.

    So in a nutshell:

    * Create at least ONE goal;

    * Have a daily task list;

    * Choose 3 tasks;

    * Set a timer for 25 minutes (or less) for each task;

    * Do the 3 tasks.

    * Pat yourself on the back for being hard-working. :-)

    Hope this helps.

    Cheers

    Angela

    P.S. Re the 25 minutes. Check out the Pomodoro technique: The Pomodoro Technique®
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6038876].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author cashp0wer
      Ahh the Shiny Object Syndrome. I remember the days when I went through this and it was a huge problem. It helped me by making a list each night for what I needed to do the next day. I would then ONLY do what was on that list and nothing else! It is hard to stay focused but once you do you will see your business start to grow.
      Signature
      My Internet Marketing Blog - Warts And All!
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6038898].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author paulpower
      Originally Posted by angela99 View Post

      Alex, I'm a Gemini (butterfly mind), so I do understand where you're coming from.

      Here's what works for me:

      * A daily task list

      * A timer

      Here's a little more detail.

      1. Your daily task list

      I use (Mac) http://culturedcode.com/things/ as my task manager. Everything in my life is in Things.

      Each day, I have between 10 and 20 things to do. I grab a sticky note, and choose the TOP 3 things I must do. Just three. :-)

      I find that if I stare at the 20 things in my Today list, and commit to doing them all, I freak out. I procrastinate. What will I do first? What's most important? Should I do X first, or Y first... and on, and on. I get so overwhelmed that I open my iPad and read a novel on my Kindle app. Not good.

      With just 3 things on my sticky note however (and just 25 minutes to spend on each), I no longer freak out. I CAN DO THIS! I realize. I (and you) can do any task, no matter how boring/ teeth-grindingly horrible for 25 minutes.

      Then I open my Timer. I use Repeat Timer Pro - Repeating Interval Timer for iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, iPod touch (3rd generation), iPod touch (4th generation) and iPad on the iTunes App Store

      2. Your timer

      A timer's essential if you have a tendency toward butterfly mind, or if you get bored easily. If you're on Windows, just Google "free timer Windows".

      I set Repeat Timer Pro for 25 minutes for all tasks. If I'm working on an ebook, I set the timer to repeat the 25 minutes, with a 5 minute break to go and get more coffee in between.

      If I HATE a task, like getting stuff ready for my accountant, let's say, I set the timer for just 5 minutes. You can stand anything for 5 minutes.

      Remember, you only have to do THREE tasks, not 20, or however many you have scheduled.

      Making just 3 tasks "MUSTS" is a psychological trick. I know it, but it nevertheless works. Most days, I manage to clear my entire Today list in Things. But just knowing that I don't have to do it -- I can do whatever I like once the 3 tasks are done, is hugely freeing.

      I'm a productivity nut. I constantly tinker with my workflow. Of course, getting the right stuff on your task list is essential. Make sure you have GOALS which motivate you. Plan to achieve those goals. You don't need to know exactly how you'll reach a goal, you just need to be able to see the next step.

      So in a nutshell:

      * Create at least ONE goal;

      * Have a daily task list;

      * Choose 3 tasks;

      * Set a timer for 25 minutes (or less) for each task;

      * Do the 3 tasks.

      * Pat yourself on the back for being hard-working. :-)

      Hope this helps.

      Cheers

      Angela

      P.S. Re the 25 minutes. Check out the Pomodoro technique: The Pomodoro Technique®
      I have to agree here angela99, this is absolutely sound advice. Also, clear your desk of clutter, such as bills, paperwork, etc. This way you will create an environment that is conducive to working.

      Also, try and stop the distractions, such as the tv, marketing videos, and jumping on the next shiny object. By doing these things you will be surprised how much better your concentration will be.

      Also, another way I found of keeping focused, is keeping a picture of my little girl on my desk, this way I am constantly reminded of the reason WHY I became involved in IM.

      The reason for you starting a business online is important, as I have found that in the times I lack focus, that picture alone brings me back down to earth.

      Just my thoughts.

      Paul.
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6041716].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Rod Cortez
    Originally Posted by Alex Guzman View Post

    Hey all, thanks in advance for commenting, I am having difficulty with focusing on Money Making Activities. I tend to go off in a tangent and start watching videos and stuff. The worst part is I know what I am doing, I am just having a hard time focusing. Everywhere I look in this business there is new shiny objects, Videos, Webinars, Podcasts, TV Shows, WebCasts... I can go on and on and on.

    I sometimes think I will go mad (crazy)... What can I do to focus, what helps you focus and how can I avoid this problem. Its like VIRTUAL ADHD!!!!


    AHHHHHH!! OH LOOK A BIRD! LOL Thanks for your replys

    Cheers,

    Alex
    Every human being is motivated by different things. While it can be argued that everyone is motivated by pain and/or pleasure (the carrot and the stick), it's still different for each individual.

    In doing a lot of goal setting with people, I have found that it's critical to get total CLARITY on what you want to accomplish and WHY. Without those two components, all the goal-setting, coffee, full throttles, red bulls, keg stands, or whatever....aren't going to help you in the long run (though you might have a bit more fun!).

    In all seriousness, once you get those two things out of the way doing something like Angela99 shared with you should help you stay focused. Most people that start an online business actually run a hobby or a bunch of small money-makers and not a real business.

    If you treat your business like a REAL business from the onset, you're going to be better focused on getting the things done that need doing.

    The way I stay motivated is that I have written down my goals, I review them almost daily, and I get excited about the next customer I'm going to help, the next project I'm going to create, or improving a project that I'm already working on.

    RoD
    Signature
    "Your personal philosophy is the greatest determining factor in how your life works out."
    - Jim Rohn
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6038923].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Duncan
      Alex,

      You getting great advice from fantastic people. I wanted to share with you that; there are a lot of distractions in this business. More distractions now than in 1999 when I started with posting banners for cash. I learned to stay focused on the blueprint, or the direction I was headed. The variety of money making systems is mind boggling. I became saturated with information overload. It has taken me a long time to get myself going from that alone. I tried so many blueprints, and shiney new toys. I began to spin my tires, and did until the last year or so. Now, i am more focused because I have stayed with a plan, set goals, and subgoals, and the steps to complete them.

      I still do not know how well i'm doing with stuff, but I keep falling forward. Enjoy yourself and set your goals. You will do okay!
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6038990].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author luane
    It is because you are so creative! We all have that problem!

    I would unsubscribe from all but your favorite marketers.

    "Eat the frog" or the short lists of tasks you should accomplish
    everyday FIRST, and then when you DO get distracted, you
    won't have wasted your time.

    Hope that helps!

    Kristie from Georgia
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6039844].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Randall Magwood
    Make a list of marketing strategies that you can do each week, and then just follow them. This will take the complexity out of everything that you've learned.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6039995].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Tadresources
    I feel your pain, this happens to everyone at some point I think. I often need complete silence when I work, and this includes videos and webinars, etc. I know it's easier said than done though. I try to make a concerted effort to not turn that stuff on. This, along with noise canceling headphones helps me a lot.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6040006].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author stuff2
    Boy oh boy I suffer from this problem big time. It is an ongoing struggle for me I suffer from tons of health problems each one can cause lack of focus.
    Some great tips here. I never get tired of hearing how others over come this issues. I see that bird too.
    Be nice to have a group, but I think no one would show up.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6040265].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author cantormel
    1. Make a list of what you want to do that day.
    2. Decide how much time you will spend on each item.
    3. As you approach each task on your list, set a timer for the desired length of time.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6040465].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author iammiles
    Hey Alex,

    Try to make a habit of self check-- ask yourself the question "What Am I Doing?" and see if the answer is related to what you are supposed to be doing. This will definitely keep you on track, getting to your goal quickly and more efficiently.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6040499].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author theory expert
    Banned
    How to stop fantasizing and start my reality ?


    If you were a cartoon mouse, I would tell you to pick up the buckets and carry the water from the well. Poor mistreated broom.

    If you were a child, I would tell you to wait. The reality of adulthood will come fast enough.

    If you were a lunatic, I would tell you that it does not matter. Your fantasy and reality are mixed so tightly that you cannot start or stop just one without the other.

    If you were a philosopher, I would tell you to think about it first, second and third.

    But, perhaps none of these is correct. Discipline of the mind does not change the heart. Cooling the heart does not improve the mind. Perhaps you just need to remember that more of Reality is changed Because of the Dreams and Fantasies and people than for any other reason or combination of reasons.

    We make our fantasies real by Doing, not by thinking, not by feeling, not by talking, not by writing but by doing. Doing makes it Real.

    SOURCE: How to stop fantasizing and start my reality ? - Yahoo! Answers
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6040507].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author yesacpow
      Unfortunately it happens to most if not all of us. One minute you are doing something productive and then in the blink of an eye you are on a new browser checking out something or on facebook checking out pics etc. lol
      I know the feeling.

      What I do to get over it is this:

      1. Break down my tasks into smaller chunks - think way it looks easier to get done as opposed to having one major project to complete.

      2. Those little sticky pads really helps. I find that writing my task on them and pasting it right over my computer screen allows me to see exactly what I need to accomplish for the day. SO even when I go off tangent for a while, the sticky pad will be there as a reminder as to what I need to get done.

      3. Getting up and taking a walk really helps also. You would be amazed to know how productive you can be after removing yourself from in front of your pc and then coming back fresh.,
      Signature
      FREE Step-By-Step Blueprint To Make $1000/Month With YouTube - Even Without Being On Camera!
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6040530].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author niceguy36
    I had the exact same problem over 1,5 years!

    Finally, I could solve it with simpleology.com

    If you take Mark Joyners advise serious, you'll achieve your goals, period.

    best regards,
    Mike
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6041109].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Alex Guzman
    Hey All, THANKS so much for all the great motivating comments. I know that most of us are in the same boat. It sure helps to have such a great group of supporting individuals such as yourselves. Well. I think I will try a little bit of everything.

    I know it is crucial to FOCUS. However difficult it may seem. This may sound cheesy... BUT I LOVE YOU GUYS. THANKS WARRIORS! YOU ROCK!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6041146].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author DanMurray
    Break everything down into tiny, tiny tasks and write them all down.

    Work in 6 15 minute blocks a day and you'll start actually getting things done!

    That's how i started...now i'm a workaholic!

    Daniel
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6041523].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author Nick Lawless
    Hi Alex,

    I know how you feel. I had the same feeling when I was just starting to learn internet marketing business. I suggest you do something that relieves you from being too excited. Take a walk, play a video game or watch some funny videos at Youtube.

    Then whenever you are working on your business, try out Bob Yeager’s 60-60-30 rule. It’s a way of doing work without forgetting to reward yourself. Trust me it works! I can give you a copy of it if you want to.

    Another tip would be:

    F – Follow

    O – Only One

    C – Course

    U – Until

    S –Successful

    Just my thoughts,

    Nick
    Signature
    Just starting online and need a website? Let me build one for you - FREE


    Click Here to claim a FREE customized website.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6057275].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author fedor50
    Originally Posted by Alex Guzman View Post

    Hey all, thanks in advance for commenting, I am having difficulty with focusing on Money Making Activities. I tend to go off in a tangent and start watching videos and stuff. The worst part is I know what I am doing, I am just having a hard time focusing. Everywhere I look in this business there is new shiny objects, Videos, Webinars, Podcasts, TV Shows, WebCasts... I can go on and on and on.

    I sometimes think I will go mad (crazy)... What can I do to focus, what helps you focus and how can I avoid this problem. Its like VIRTUAL ADHD!!!!


    AHHHHHH!! OH LOOK A BIRD! LOL Thanks for your replys

    Cheers,

    Alex
    What I would do if I were you is think about long term the way all your hard work will pay off in the future if you stay focused. Jumping from method to method is a surefire way to fail.
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[6057427].message }}

Trending Topics