The Focus Minute
By Mike Berggren
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(The views expressed on this podcast are those of the participants and do not necessarily represent the views of any other person or entity).
The Focus MinuteDec 24, 2022
The Greatest Hits
In today's episode, Mike recaps on the top three principals from The Focus Minute podcast thus far: managing distractions, developing a healthy lifestyle, and leveraging the power of routines.
For more details, check out the following episodes:
- S01E01 - Eisenhower Matrix
- S01E04 - Pomodoro Method
- S01E08 - Nightly Routine
- S01E10 - Sleep
Developing Focus
Why is it so hard to focus sometimes? Can this be improved? In today's episode, Mike discusses the book "Peak Mind" by Dr. Amishi Jha, and introduces the link between mindfulness and mental clarity.
Spring cleaning mobile apps
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!
Eat that frog!
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.
Boosting afternoon energy
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.
The Psychology of Procrastination
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!
How to write
In today's episode, Mike reviews some classic principles for effective writing. Check it out!
How to reach a flow state
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.
End of year reflection
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.
Ultralearning
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!
Toxic Productivity?
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!
The Four Laws of Behavior Change
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
Determining the value of your time
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/
Quick Tasks
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.
Measuring and assigning value to tasks
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
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.
Gamification
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.
Nightly Routines
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.
Learning Tips
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".
Five Steps of the GTD Methodology
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.
Reflection Exercises
In today's episode, we discuss an article from Forbes (source) discussing reflection exercises and how to set your day up for success.
Pomodoro Technique
In this episode, we examine the Pomodoro Technique - a very popular time management method developed by Francesco Cirillo.
Email Management Tips
In this episode, we talk about email and tips for managing it more effectively.
Gathering Points
In this episode, we'll introduce a key principal of productivity: gathering points. We explore what these are and why they're essential.
The Eisenhower Matrix
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.