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Staying Focused in 2025

Staying Focused in 2025

5 Ways to Stay Focused

Kevin Hill
January 10, 2025

5 Ways to Stay Focused and Make Progress as an IT Professional

System administrators, developers and DBAs are no strangers to the constant pull of interruptions, from unexpected issues to endless meetings. Staying focused and making meaningful progress can feel like an uphill battle. Over the years, I’ve picked up a few strategies that can help cut through the noise and keep you moving forward.

1. Block Time on Your Calendar
Carve out time for your most important tasks and guard it fiercely. Label it something generic like “Project Work” if you’re worried about getting pulled into other things. I block out time for lunch and the gym every day, which keeps people from booking on top of “my time”

2. Set Daily Priorities
Every morning, pick the 1-3 things you must get done that day. Write them down. Even if the day gets derailed, you’ll have a clearer path to getting back on track.

3. Eliminate Distractions
Silence notifications, close unnecessary tabs, and communicate when you’re in focus mode. Sometimes, it’s as simple as letting your team know you’ll check messages after lunch. I’ve been known to turn my phone face-down so I don’t see silent notifications popping up in my peripheral vision.

4. Take Regular Breaks
Burnout doesn’t equal productivity. Step away, even if it’s just for 5 minutes every hour. Use the time to reset, refocus, and recharge. If you have, or can get a standing desk, even this change in body position can help.

5. Celebrate Progress
Progress is progress, even if it’s just one checkbox on a long list. Acknowledge it and build on the momentum for the next task.

It’s easy to feel like you’re being productive when you’re busy, but without focus, you’re just spinning your wheels. Taking deliberate steps to manage your time and energy isn’t just a productivity hack; it’s a leadership skill that can make a difference in your career.

What strategies have worked for you?