The Art of Undivided Attention
The ability to concentrate fully on a task has become a rare and valuable skill. Our twelfth Time Impulse is dedicated to the topic of "Focus Time"—the conscious structuring of time periods in which we remain with one thing with undivided attention.
Why focus is so valuable
Perhaps you know the feeling: You're working on an important task, but every few minutes you're interrupted by messages, calls, or colleagues. At the end of the day, you've reacted a lot, but accomplished little. This fragmented way of working is not only inefficient, but also mentally exhausting.
Studies show that after each interruption, we need an average of 23 minutes to fully immerse ourselves in a task again. With several interruptions per hour, little remains for deep, productive work. Even more serious: Our brains get used to these constant interruptions and lose the ability to concentrate for extended periods.
Deep Work instead of Shallow Work
Productivity expert Cal Newport coined the term "deep work"—the ability to focus on a demanding task without distractions. This contrasts with "shallow work"—easily completed but low-value activities such as answering emails or routine administrative tasks.
The most valuable and satisfying results almost always emerge during periods of deep concentration. Whether developing a new strategy, solving a complex problem, or creating something new, true quality requires focused time.
The 90-minute focus blocks
Our brains operate in natural rhythms. Ultradian rhythms describe performance cycles of approximately 90 minutes, followed by shorter recovery phases. You can use this biological clocking for your focus times:
- Plan fixed focus blocks: Reserve 90-minute blocks in your calendar for in-depth work.
- Create a distraction-free environment: Put your smartphone in airplane mode, close your email program, and inform your colleagues.
- Define a clear goal: What exactly do you want to achieve in this time block?
- Work with full presence: Stay on the one task at hand and resist the temptation to multitask. Multitasking is the exact opposite of focus and therefore unsuitable for tackling demanding tasks.
- Consciously recover: After the focus block, take a real break of 15-20 minutes.
The focus trap of multitasking
The myth of multitasking has caused a great deal of harm. In reality, our brain cannot process multiple demanding tasks at the same time – it simply switches rapidly between them, which leads to higher energy consumption, more mistakes, and reduced creativity.
Instead of trying to do everything at once, make a conscious decision: What needs to be done right now? Dedicate your full attention to that one task.
Train focus like a muscle
The good news: you can train your focus. Like a muscle, your ability to concentrate becomes stronger the more you use it. Start with shorter focus intervals of 25–45 minutes and gradually increase to 90 minutes.
Pay attention to your personal energy patterns: most people experience their most creative and focused phase in the morning. Use this “prime time” for your most demanding tasks.
The role of your environment
Your surroundings significantly influence your ability to concentrate. Create a space that supports focus:
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Reduce visual distractions (a tidy desk)
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Minimize noise (noise-cancelling headphones if needed)
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Optimize lighting (ideally daylight)
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Make sure you sit comfortably but upright
From time pressure to time freedom
Paradoxically, consciously limiting and focusing your time leads to a sense of freedom. When you know that you will dedicate the next 90 minutes entirely to one task, you can commit to it without guilt. The constant inner restlessness of feeling you should be doing something else fades away.
Practical impulses for your everyday life
- Establish a focus ritual: create a short routine that signals your mind it’s time to concentrate (e.g., drink a glass of water, take three deep breaths, put your phone away).
- Block focus time in your calendar: treat this time like an important appointment — because it is.
- Communicate your focus times: let colleagues and family know when you do not wish to be interrupted.
- Experiment with different environments: some people concentrate best in complete silence, others with a bit of background noise.
Reflection question for today
When and where will you focus for 45–90 minutes at a stretch today? How and when are you best able to stay undisturbed and fully present with one single task?
Remember: your time is your life. The way you direct your attention determines the quality of your experiences and your results. In a world that constantly competes for your attention, conscious focus is an act of self-determination.
More clarity at a glance
1. What does “Focus Time” mean in time management, and why is it so important?
Focus Time is a deliberately reserved period in which you devote yourself to a single task without interruption. These phases of deep concentration boost your productivity and strengthen your sense of time. Studies show that those who regularly schedule focused work blocks achieve more in less time and feel mentally less exhausted.
2. How do I plan my personal Focus Time most effectively?
Use 90-minute blocks that align with your natural performance rhythm (keyword: ultradian rhythm). Block this time firmly in your calendar, define a clear goal, and switch off all distractions. This way, your “me time” becomes the most productive part of your day.
3. What role does the environment play for deep work and undivided attention?
A tidy, quiet environment supports your ability to focus: reduce visual and acoustic distractions, ensure good lighting, and choose a comfortable seat. Noise-cancelling headphones and a clean desk are helpful companions for effective Focus Time.
4. How can I train my concentration specifically?
Focus is like a muscle: start with short focus intervals (e.g., 25 minutes) and gradually increase them to longer blocks of up to 90 minutes. Keep an eye on your personal energy patterns — many people are most focused in the morning.
5. Why is multitasking counterproductive for true time awareness?
Multitasking fragments your attention and increases error rates. Our brain cannot process two demanding tasks at the same time; instead, it switches back and forth between them — which costs time and energy. Conscious focus is the key to sustainable time management.
6. How can I protect my Focus Time from interruptions in everyday work?
Communicate your focus periods clearly to colleagues and family. Turn off your smartphone and notifications, and avoid interruptions during this time. Treat your Focus Time like an important business appointment — it’s your personal productivity booster.
7. What practical rituals help establish Focus Time in daily life?
Develop a personal focus ritual: this could be drinking a glass of water, taking a conscious breath, or putting your phone away. Use this routine to tune your mind into concentration and intentionally enhance the quality of your time.
This time impulse is part of our Your Time principle—a philosophy that helps you develop a new awareness of your personal time and manage it more confidently. Discover all 28 time impulses and change your view of time.
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