Microsteps to Improve Your Focus Based On Your Unique Brain
Tailor your work routine to how your brain works.
Our brains all work differently, which is why it’s so important to tailor your workflow and schedule to what helps you focus and absorb information best. Experimenting with small adjustments — like using a timer, writing a checklist, or putting away your phone — can make a big difference in how effectively you work and learn.
Try these Microsteps to help you set priorities and improve your focus based on your unique brain:
(Visual learner)
Use green, yellow and red highlighters to categorize your tasks by priority. For example, use green to highlight two to three top priorities on your to-do list, yellow for medium priorities and red to mark things that are less urgent.
(Auditory learner)
Use voice memos instead of written reminders for quick task logging. Replay the recording when sitting down for work to know where to place your focus.
(Fast information processor)
Set a reminder to review your work before submitting it. For people prone to fasting thinking and decision-making, this can ensure you’re taking the time to look everything over without rushing.
(Slow information processor)
Schedule 10 minutes after a meeting or task for time to reflect on what you have done or learned. Allowing extra time in your day for deep thinking can help you contemplate complex issues without feeling pressured to rush to your next task.
(Detail oriented thinkers)
Before starting a task, write one sentence to define what “done” looks like. Detail-oriented thinkers can get lost in perfectionism and small details, making it hard to know when to stop. Setting a simple “completion checkpoint” upfront can help you stay focused on completing the work.
(Big picture thinkers)
Pick a major project or goal and break it down into three milestones, followed by one small step you can take today to make progress. Big-picture thinking is a strength, but execution requires breaking it down into small, manageable steps.
(Social learner)
Find a daily check-in partner and discuss your top priorities for the day. Social learners process information best through discussion, collaboration, and verbal reinforcement. Speaking priorities out loud provides clarity, accountability, and motivation to follow through
(Independent learners)
Set a 25-minute timer for deep work, then take a short break to engage with a colleague. Independent learners thrive through self-direction, reflection, and deep focus, but they can also become over-immersed in their work. Using the break to engage with a colleague can be a great way to reset mentally, gain new insights, and avoid isolation.