The Focus Minute

Tis' the season to... remove unnecessary smartphone apps! In today's episode, Mike reminds us to reduce digital clutter and unnecessary distractions on our phones. Check it out!

What are secrets to accomplishing more in your day and growing closer to worthwhile goals? In today's episode, Mike explores that, and more, as described in the book "Eat That Frog!" by noted author Brian Tracy. It's a fascinating read and well worth your time. For more information, check out Brian's site here.

Do you ever find yourself absolutely exhausted by the end of the work day? Here are some quick tips for boosting mid-afternoon energy levels, courtesy of Inc Magazine. Check out the full article here.

Why is it human nature to put stuff off until the last minute? In today's episode, Mike explores the psychology behind procrastination and goes over tips from noted author and psychologist Dr. Seth Gillihan. Check it out!

In today's episode, Mike reviews some classic principles for effective writing. Check it out!

Welcome to season 2 of The Focus Minute! In today's episode, Mike explores "flow state" and practical ways to achieve it, courtesy of an excellent blog post by Jari Roomer. Check out the full article here.

As 2021 winds down, now is a perfect time for reflection. In today's episode, Mike highlights six introspective questions for productive growth. For more details, please also check out Eva Keiffenheim's excellent blog post here.

What are the secrets to effective learning? What is the fastest way to master a skill? In today's episode, Mike reviews the core principles from the book "Ultralearning" by Scott H. Young. Check it out!

Huh. What the heck is "toxic productivity" and how does it relate to the tips/principles we've discussed in prior episodes? Find out in today's episode!

What's the secret to building and maintaining good habits? In today's episode, Mike reviews the Four Laws of Behavior Change as explained in the book "Atomic Habits" by James Clear. It's a phenomenal book folks, check it out at https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits

Is it worth your time to constantly deal with a printer paper jam? What about a really slow computer? In today's episode, Mike walks through some simple formulas for quantifying the value of your time during the work day. Special thanks to Chris Croft for some excellent formulas. Check out his blog at https://www.chriscroft.co.uk/blog/

There's large time-consuming tasks... and then there's things that can be completed in an instant. What about the stuff in between? In today's podcast, Mike discusses "quick tasks" and the best times to work on them.

What happens if we quantify the amount of time we have in the day and measure the value of the tasks we're spending time on? Today we'll talk through this thought exercise.

Sleep. We know we need to get more of it, but why? And how specifically does it help with productivity? Find out as we as we scratch the surface of this area thanks to noted author Eric Barker.

Can you be more productive by treating everyday tasks like a game? Maybe. In this episode, Mike introduces the topic of gamification including its common framework.

Want to start your day off right? Prepare for it the night before! In this episode, we'll talk about the value of preparing for your next day and establishing routines for effective streamlining and automation.

In today's episode, we'll explore four tips for learning information more effectively and efficiently. For more information on this topic, check out Barbara Oakley's free coursera course "Learning How to Learn".

Wondering where to start when it comes to productivity? Check out David Allen's book "Getting Things Done". In today's episode, Mike review the five steps of the GTD Methodology.

In today's episode, we discuss an article from Forbes (source) discussing reflection exercises and how to set your day up for success.

In this episode, we examine the Pomodoro Technique - a very popular time management method developed by Francesco Cirillo.

In this episode, we talk about email and tips for managing it more effectively.

In this episode, we'll introduce a key principal of productivity: gathering points. We explore what these are and why they're essential.

In this first episode, we'll explore the Eisenhower Matrix - a popular model for prioritizing tasks that was invented by former US President Dwight D. Eisenhower.