We all have a massive to-do list inside us that never gets done. Important things. Strategies, processes and methodologies, new products, templates. Projects that could change our business success.

When we’re fully engaged in the day-to-day with our business, we don’t get the chance to make them happen. The busyness of our business always seems to expand to take up the entire day. These important tasks get shelved while we focus on the urgent.

I’ve been in this place for years. My practice keeps me very busy, leaving me very little time to work on the business.

Pretend Your Business is a Customer

Last fall I tried treating my practice as a client and booking time after a major project. The results were good – I was able to take the learning and develop templates and processes that made the next similar project easier and faster. Fantastic!

But there was still important stuff inside me that needed to get out, and there was never enough time.

Taking the Next Step for Business Success by Increasing Focus

This spring I sat down with another entrepreneur and found we were in the same boat.  We decided to do something about it.

We both opened up our calendars and set aside every Friday for months to do the important work.

The rules were simple:

• The work had to be the important work. No client work allowed. Not quick get-stuff-done tasks
• We would meet in an office that is not our normal workspace
• Phones off. Email off.  No social media.  No distractions from the important work were allowed during working hours
  – We could check in on email/voicemail 3 times per day (8 / 12 / end of day)
• We would hold each other accountable
• We would stop mid-afternoon and have time to brainstorm / mastermind together

Having a partner in the room helped me tremendously while building my habits around being focused. I was accountable to someone. The different location meant that many of my go-to-distractions weren’t available.

The Results Were Awesome

I designed and launched my security awareness training, a product I’m very proud of. I created a number of templates to systematize some of the recurring projects I do. My partner made progress on a number of projects as well.

Most importantly, it was incredibly fulfilling. I created things. The important things inside started to get out and as they did, new ideas took their place.  Creativity increased.

Our brainstorming / mastermind time was surprisingly effective. Just explaining a problem I was dealing with was often enough for me to see a new angle or work through it.  Having another point of view was great and our relationship deepened over our time together too.

The concept of focused time to work ON the business is nothing new. Everyone knows the benefits. Sadly, the actual execution is rare. By setting aside regular time, without distractions, you can make a big leap forward in your business success.