Focus on This

The Secret Sauce for Achieving Your 2025 Goals Feb 17, 2025

Most people have already abandoned their 2025 goals—but that doesn’t have to be you. In this episode, Marissa Hyatt and Ken Freire reveal the four key actions you need to take to guarantee your success this year. Whether you’ve fallen behind or just need a boost of motivation, this conversation will help you get back on track.

Key Takeaways

Time Is on Your Side. Most people quit their goals too early, but there’s still plenty of time to turn things around.
Clarity Drives Success. Connecting your goals to a bigger purpose makes them more meaningful—and more achievable.
Identity Fuels Achievement. Knowing who you are and why you’re here can keep you connected to the vision you’re chasing.
Intentionality Wins. Goals don’t accomplish themselves. A structured plan makes all the difference.

Resources

Life Focus Retreat (Early Bird Savings End Friday, Feb. 21!)
The Full Focus Planner
The Full Focus Planner Community

Watch on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/sCocn6qxQ5w

This episode was produced by Sarah Vorhees Wendel of VW Sound

Setting and Achieving #RelationshipGoals Feb 10, 2025

Relationships are one of the most important areas of life—but they rarely get the same level of attention and intentionality as work or health. In this episode, Marissa Hyatt and Ken Freire break down how to set and achieve meaningful relationship goals—whether it’s with your partner, family, friends, or community.

Key Takeaways

Time Builds Connection. The best way to strengthen a relationship is by prioritizing it on your calendar.
Knowledge Creates Depth. The more you learn about yourself and others, the richer your relationships become.
Shared Experiences Bond Us. Trying something new together strengthens relationships in ways that routine can’t.
Intentionality Matters. Great relationships don’t happen by accident—setting clear goals makes all the difference.

Resources

Watch on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/Kt9wVaflLh8

This episode was produced by Sarah Vorhees Wendel of VW Sound

Building a Balanced Life: 9 Domains You Need Feb 03, 2025

Are you building a life that feels balanced and fulfilling—or just busy? In this episode, Marissa Hyatt and Ken Freire explore the nine life domains that influence your success, happiness, and well-being. You’ll learn how to assess where you’re thriving, where you’re struggling, and how to create goals that lead to real transformation.

Key Takeaways

The 9 Life Domains: They include body, mind, spirit, love, family, community, money, work, and hobbies.
The Importance of Integration: Who you are, how you relate, and what you do all matter. How do you hold room for each?
How to Identify Your Growth Areas: Use the LifeScore Assessment to pinpoint your biggest opportunities for change.
Small Adjustments, Big Impact: The secret to long-term balance is intentional, consistent action.

Resources

Watch on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/K6Z-87EHJaU

This episode was produced by Sarah Vorhees Wendel of VW Sound

3 Questions to Power Ongoing Growth Jan 27, 2025

Marissa Hyatt and Ken Freire finish out the month with a simple, transformative strategy: reflecting on your week to drive growth. They break down three simple questions to help you learn from your experiences, identify what’s working (and what’s not), and create an action plan for success—all in less than an hour.

Key Takeaways

Reflection Unlocks Growth: Your experiences teach you only if you take the time to analyze them.
Simplicity Scales: Over-complicating your goals creates unnecessary hurdles—keep it straightforward.
Small Changes, Big Impact: Incremental adjustments lead to exponential results.
Focus on Preparation: Being ready for the week ahead is more than half the battle—and the foundation for success.

Resources

Watch on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/9kMPNMKT1Ec

This episode was produced by Sarah Vorhees Wendel of VW Sound

Our Best Strategy for Living Less Stressed Jan 20, 2025

Marissa Hyatt and Ken Freire are back in action for the new year! In this episode, they share their go-to strategy for reducing stress and achieving your goals with ease: the Daily Big 3. Learn how this simple yet effective system keeps you focused, eliminates overwhelm, and sets you up for success—all without burning out.

Key Takeaways

Consistency Builds Results. Big wins come from daily, intentional actions.
The Hidden Productivity Trap. One of the sneakiest obstacles to productivity? Your long task list.
Energy Matters More Than Time. Notice how you feel to decide what you’ll do—and when.
Aim for Manageable, Not Perfect. Don’t plan for an ideal day, because we live in an unideal world.
Embrace the Unideal. Even the best plans can derail when unexpected challenges arise—and that’s okay.

Resources

Watch on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/q4Frx6Xa3YU

This episode was produced by Sarah Vorhees Wendel of VW Sound

3 Actions to Build Goal Momentum Today Jan 13, 2025

The first few weeks of the year are critical for building momentum toward your goals—but how do you make progress that lasts? In this solo episode, host Ken Freire shares three simple actions to help you start strong and stay on track in 2025. These practical tips are easy to implement and designed to keep you motivated all year long.

Key Takeaways

Start Immediately. Procrastination kills momentum. Take a small action today—even if it’s as simple as doing one squat or buying a journal.
Make Your Goals Visible. Keep your goals front and center by posting them where you’ll see them daily—on your phone, bathroom mirror, or workspace.
Write Down Next Steps. Break your goals into actionable steps, starting with the first three. Focus on one step at a time to maintain clarity and progress.
Celebrate Small Wins. Sharing milestones with someone helps build motivation and accountability.
Find an Accountability Partner. Share your next step with a friend, family member, or the Full Focus Planner Community to stay committed.

Resources

Watch on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/jPIVQNAWdiI

This episode was produced by Sarah Vorhees Wendel of VW Sound

How to Avoid 4 Common Goal Setting Mistakes Jan 06, 2025

The new year is here, and so is the opportunity to achieve your biggest goals. But too often, common mistakes hold us back. In this solo episode, host Ken Freire breaks down four goal-setting pitfalls and shares practical strategies to overcome them.

Key Takeaways

Clarity is Key: Avoid vague resolutions and define clear, SMARTER goals.
Don’t Play It Safe: Risky goals inspire growth. Safe goals keep you stuck.
Take Action: Announcing goals isn’t enough—daily action is the real game-changer.
Find Your People: Accountability and support are crucial for staying on track.

Resources

Watch on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/1hKiE64_YyI

This episode was produced by Sarah Vorhees Wendel of VW Sound

A Visualization for Dreaming Bigger Dec 16, 2024

Visualization can feel a bit “out there,” but it’s a secret weapon used by top athletes like Michael Phelps and LeBron James to focus on their future goals. In this episode, Marissa Hyatt leads a guided visualization exercise designed to help you reconnect with your dreams, clarify your goals, and step into the future you’ve been waiting for. Whether you’re new to visualization or already a fan, this is your moment to dream big for 2025.

Key Takeaways

Visualization Works: Top performers use it to create the future they want.
Your Focus Shapes Your Path: Life follows the direction of your thoughts—so focus on what you do want.
Start Small: Begin by visualizing the week ahead, then dream bigger for the year to come.
Gratitude Anchors Growth: Ground yourself in thankfulness to fuel your forward momentum.

Resources

Your Best Year Ever

Watch on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/8CmoOsSlNvw

This episode was produced by Sarah Vorhees Wendel of VW Sound

Time to Triage Your Calendar Dec 09, 2024

The holiday season is here, and with it comes packed schedules and mounting demands. In this solo episode, host Marissa Hyatt shares her four-step framework for performing a calendar triage that clears your schedule, reduces stress, and makes space for what matters most.

Key Takeaways

Cut the Inessential: Say goodbye to unnecessary meetings and obligations.
Defer When Possible: Push non-urgent tasks into the new year.
Batching is Your Friend: Group similar tasks together for peak productivity.
Protect Self-Care: Prioritize sleep, exercise, and downtime to stay healthy and energized.

Resources

Ideal Week Template: fullfocus.co/idealweek

Watch on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/x4VmPXBWM_M

This episode was produced by Sarah Vorhees Wendel of VW Sound

10 Questions to Ask Yourself Before the New Year Dec 02, 2024

In this episode of Focus on This, Marissa and Ken dive into 10 thought-provoking questions to help you reflect on the past year and prepare for an intentional and successful 2025. From identifying what made you feel most like yourself to dreaming big for the future, these questions are designed to inspire clarity and action as you wrap up the year.

Whether you prefer journaling, a reflective date night, or a meaningful family conversation, these prompts will guide you toward a more focused, purposeful new year.

Key Takeaways

Reflect on the Past to Celebrate and Learn. Looking back helps identify your wins, lessons, and what truly mattered most.
Clarify What (and Who) Matters Most. Define the people, priorities, and activities that align with your values and energize you.
Let Go and Make Room for Growth. Release habits, beliefs, or clutter that no longer serve you to create space for what’s next.
Dream Boldly and Act Intentionally. Imagine your best year yet and take concrete steps to make it happen, guided by clarity and purpose.

Resources

Full Focus Planner

Watch on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/uNekuoX8kEk

This episode was produced by Sarah Vorhees Wendel of VW Sound

End the Year Strong (And Set Yourself Up for Success in 2025) Nov 18, 2024

In this episode, Marissa and Ken discuss four powerful actions to help you finish the year strong and set the stage for a successful 2025. They’ll help you narrow your focus, turn experience into a plan, power the energy you need—and use it all to start dreaming big for 2025.

Key Takeaways

Define Your One Thing: Simplify by focusing on one impactful goal for the rest of the year. Choose a goal with a "domino effect" that will positively influence other areas in 2025.
Stop and Recalibrate: Conduct an After Action Review with the KISS method (Keep, Improve, Start, Stop) to reflect on the past few months and prioritize what matters most.
Protect Time to Connect: Connect with the people who matter most to you and with yourself to give you the energy you need to finish well this year.
Start Dreaming for Next Year: Open your mind to possibilities in 2025. Suspend limiting beliefs and allow yourself to think big. Listen to learn the question that unlocks possibility.

Resources

Your Best Year Ever Live!

Watch on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/mRQbAktDVWo

This episode was produced by Sarah Vorhees Wendel of VW Sound

What to Do When You Miss a Goal Nov 11, 2024

In this episode, Marissa and Ken dive into the universal experience of missing a goal, showing why even the most driven people face setbacks. They share strategies for navigating the emotions that come with falling short and explain how to turn those moments into valuable growth opportunities. If you're ready to see missed goals as fuel for resilience and progress, this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways

Recognize You’re Not Alone: Everyone misses goals, even the most successful people. Give yourself grace and take a breath.
Let Regret Be Your Teacher: Instead of dwelling on the loss, use regret to reconnect with what matters and fuel future efforts.
Use the After Action Review: Assess your approach by asking what worked, what didn’t, and what you can do differently next time.
Commit to Dreaming Again: Embrace the courage to set new goals, knowing that setbacks are stepping stones in your journey.

Resources

Your Best Year Ever Live Event | January 3-4 | fullfocus.co/bestyearever

Watch on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/zCmzjzXmZt4

This episode was produced by Sarah Vorhees Wendel of VW Sound

4 Reasons People Quit Their Goals Nov 04, 2024

In this episode, Marissa and Ken reveal the four most common reasons people abandon their goals and share strategies to overcome each one. They discuss practical ways to reignite motivation, stay realistic, beat overwhelm, and find the support needed to pursue what matters.

Key Takeaways

Lack of Motivation: Goals without personal meaning are easy to abandon. Reflect on why the goal matters to stay inspired.
Unrealistic Expectations: Expecting too much, too quickly can lead to burnout. Set achievable steps, celebrate progress, and be kind to yourself.
Overwhelmed by Complexity: Big goals can seem daunting. Break them down into manageable steps, focusing on progress over perfection.
Lack of Support: Pursuing a goal alone can be isolating. Build a support system or find an accountability partner to help you stay on track.

Resources

Double Win Coaching | fullfocus.co/strategy

Watch on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/qlc4kTMa1m4

This episode was produced by Sarah Vorhees Wendel of VW Sound

4 Fears Undermining Your Success Oct 28, 2024

In this Halloween-themed episode, Marissa and Ken explore the four fears that might be quietly undermining your success. They discuss why fear is normal (and designed to keep us safe), but also how it can lead to inaction if left unchecked. They break down why these four fears are so pervasive—and what you can do to overcome them.

Key Takeaways

Fear of Failure: If we’re scared to fail, we’ll be scared to try. Normalizing failure can be the key to progress.
Fear of Letting People Down: Overcommitting can lead to burnout. Setting healthy boundaries starts with self-awareness.
Fear of the Unknown: It’s natural to crave control, but true growth happens when you embrace uncertainty and focus on what you can control.
Fear of Success: Success can be intimidating if you believe it will change how others see you. Define success on your own terms to stay grounded.

Resources

Boundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud & Dr. John Townsend
Codependent No More by Melody Beattie
Full Focus Planner Community

Watch this on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/4FsCkU3MMDM

This episode was produced by Sarah Vorhees Wendel of VW Sound

3 Changes to Embrace This Autumn Oct 21, 2024

In this episode, Marissa and Ken explore the three key changes you need to embrace this autumn to end the year on a high note. To manage the end-of-year chaos, they explore how to move from burnout to balance, embrace "good enough" over perfection, and end the drift so you can design your days with intention.

Key Takeaways

Battling Burnout. You have permission to slow down. (It’s what Mother Nature is telling us to do.)
“Good Enough” is Good Enough. Don’t make it perfect. Make it done.
Design, or You’ll Drift. If you don’t take control of your time, it will disappear. Now more than ever, you need to be intentional with your calendar.

Resources

The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod
Focus on This Facebook Community

Watch on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/wcQeC5e8x90

This episode was produced by Sarah Vorhees Wendel of VW Sound

Powering Your Goal Achievement with AI Oct 14, 2024

Everybody’s talking about it—and in this episode, Ken and Marissa join the AI conversation, exploring how you can leverage AI to power your goal success. From idea generation to staying on track with your goals, AI can be your secret weapon for faster, smarter results. They cover tips on how to get the best output from Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT and introduce specific strategies for leveraging AI’s help to reach your goals. Whether you’re new to AI or use it every day, this episode offers actionable steps to level-up your AI application.

Key Takeaways

AI for Idea Generation: Use AI to brainstorm creative goal ideas and strategies, whether related to health, finances, or personal development.
Refining Goals: Learn how to make your goals SMARTER (Specific, Measurable, Actionable, Risky, Time-bound, Exciting, and Relevant) using AI prompts.
Next Steps and Rewards: Discover how AI can generate personalized next steps and rewards to keep you motivated.
Overcoming Obstacles: Get AI-powered solutions for staying unstuck and overcoming challenges along your goal achievement journey.

Resources

Your Best Year Ever by Michael Hyatt (book)

ChatGPT (AI tool)

This episode was produced by Sarah Vorhees Wendel of VW Sound

4 Boundaries to Protect Your Priorities (and Improve Results) Oct 07, 2024

Boundaries might seem confining, but they are an indispensable tool for maximizing our contribution and stewarding our energy. After a brief hiatus, Ken is back, and in this episode, the duo discuss four essential boundaries that can help you stay focused, protect your time, and prioritize what matters most. Implementing the practical tools and insights explored in this episode can help you reset and reclaim the balance your life is missing.

Key Takeaways

Why boundaries are essential for success and happiness
How a workday startup and shutdown ritual can help prevent overwork
The importance of saying no to urgent, less important work to focus on your highest contribution
How to distance yourself from negative relationships while encouraging positivity
The impact of saying no to late nights and prioritizing rest for better productivity

Resources

Essential Daily Rituals to Transform Your Life (free download)
The One Thing by Gary Keller (book)
Sleep Smarter by Shawn Stevenson (book)
The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod (book)

Watch this video on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/HhwGPxINs2o

This episode was produced by Sarah Vorhees Wendel of VW Sound

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

3 Tips for Building Habits That Stick Sep 30, 2024

In this episode, Marissa Hyatt explores one of her favorite topics—habits! If you've struggled to make new habits stick, this episode is for you. Marissa walks through three actionable strategies to help you create habits that last. Whether you’re working on fitness, productivity, or personal growth, these tips will help you get back on track and stay there.

Key Takeaways

How long it takes to form a habit (Hint: “21 days” is a myth.)
The power (and simplicity) of habit stacking
The four rituals we recommend every high-achiever adopt
How to keep your habits front and center
Why building rewards into your habits can help you stay consistent

Resources Mentioned

Big 3 Wellness Challenge Tracker (free download)
Full Focus StreakTracker (free download)
Weekly Wellness Tracker

Watch this video on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/vE7EnGJqfYE

This episode was produced by Sarah Vorhees Wendel of VW Sound

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Do Less and Achieve More in Q4 Sep 23, 2024

Are you feeling overwhelmed with your to-do list heading into Q4 Marissa is solo today as she discusses strategies for achieving productivity and success and counters the common belief that increased effort is necessary for success.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Limit your focus by setting 2-3 key goals
Simplify your daily focus by implementing The Big Three
Create a Strong Finish by establishing rituals

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/MQVVZKYb3DU

Schedule a deep dive on the Double Win Strategy at http://fullfocus.co/coaching

This episode was produced by Sarah Vorhees Wendel of VW Sound

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Summer Plans: How to Take a Break to Truly Recharge Jun 10, 2024

Ready for a vacation that truly recharges you? Well, tune in as Marissa and Ken share with you how to plan a summer break that leaves you refreshed and ready to tackle anything!

In this episode, you will:

Discover the Vacation Optimizer: a free tool to help you plan a perfect getaway.
Learn how to create a vacation vision and set yourself up for success before, during, and after your time off.
Get tips on how to ensure your team runs smoothly while you’re away, so you can truly unplug.

Plus, we have some exciting news about a new podcast from Full Focus and some updates regarding our summer schedule!

Download the Vacation Optimized at fullfocus.co/vacation.

Make sure to visit with other Full Focus Planner users over in the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook: fullfocus.co/community

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Ultimate Guide to Time Blocking: How to Create Your Ideal Week Jun 03, 2024

Do you struggle with constant interruptions, endless meetings, and finding time for deep, creative work? If so, this episode is your lifesaver! Today, Marissa and Ken dive into the power of time blocking.

In this episode, you will:

Discover the magic of time blocking: Learn how to categorize and schedule your tasks effectively to reclaim your day from distractions and interruptions.
Master mega batching: Find out how grouping similar tasks can supercharge your productivity and keep you in the flow.
Optimize your schedule with chronotypes: Understand your natural energy patterns to plan your day for maximum efficiency and creativity.
Wait to see if a hummingbird appears

Watch this episode on YouTube: youtu.be/0T97Bo53wvg

Tune in to transform your daily routine and get the right stuff done with ease!

Resources mentioned:

Full Focus Ideal Week Printable: fullfocus.co/idealweek
Free to Focus by Michael Hyatt
When: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing by Daniel Pink
The Power of When by Michael Breus

Make sure to check the Facebook community to provide support to our three users and share your own goals with others! fullfocus.co/community

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

5 ADHD-Friendly Tips for Sticking With Your Planner May 27, 2024

Ever feel overwhelmed by disorganization or like you’re not a "planner person"? Full Focus Planner Certified Pro Kristina Proctor joins us on this episode to break down simple strategies to help you get the most out of your planner and achieve your goals, even if you have ADHD or just feel perpetually disorganized.

In this episode, you will:

Discover why starting with an ideal day instead of an ideal week can make planning less overwhelming and more effective.
Find out how evening rituals can set you up for success and how to make your habits more engaging.
Learn how to use your planner as a tool for support without guilt and get back on track when you stumble.

Visit Kristina at her website neurodivergentventures.com and follow her on Instagram at instagram.com/adhdcoachktina

Resources mentioned in this episode:

CHADD.org – For understanding ADHD in adults, teens, and children.
ADDitude Magazine – Articles and resources about ADHD.

Make sure to check the Facebook community to provide support to our three users and share your own goals with others! fullfocus.co/community

Remember the brand new Full Focus webinar: Land More Coaching Clients, Transform Lives, & Stand Out in a Crowded Market: 5 Impactful Lessons from a 7-Figure Coach. Go to fullfocus.co/lessons to find out more.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

One Planner For All Seasons: How One Planner User Conquered College, Career, and Entrepreneurship May 20, 2024

Did you know your planner can be a time-traveling companion through different phases of life? Whether you're a student, an office worker, or a business owner, the Full Focus Planner is here to support your productivity journey!

In this episode, Nick is joined by Madelyn Victoria, a seasoned planner user, who shares how she's leveraged her planner from college to running her own business. Get ready to dive into practical tips and insights on making the most of your planner at every stage.

In this episode, you will:

Discover tips for college productivity: Learn how Madelyn used her planner with color-coded pens to keep track of classes, extracurriculars, and assignments, making the chaos of college life more manageable.
Understand the transition to the office: Find out how she adapted her planner for a full-time job, utilizing brain dumps and prioritizing tasks to stay organized and efficient in a busy administrative role.
Master entrepreneurial planning: Get inspired by her strategies for running a business, including using theme days and mapping out weekly goals to keep on top of both professional and personal commitments.

Watch this episode on YouTube: youtu.be/dh3eDNqCFbs

Check out more from Madelyn: madelynvictoriaco.com/visibility

Make sure to check the Facebook community to provide support to our three users and share your own goals with others! fullfocus.co/community

Remember the brand new Full Focus webinar: Land More Coaching Clients, Transform Lives, & Stand Out in a Crowded Market: 5 Impactful Lessons from a 7-Figure Coach. Go to fullfocus.co/lessons to find out more.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Avoid These 5 Mistakes To Crush Your Health Goals May 13, 2024

We chat about all sorts of goals on this podcast, from spending more time with family to earning a bit more cash. But let's face it, health goals are a big deal for just about everyone. Most of us have at least one on our yearly list, but they're tricky to stick with. In this episode, Marissa and Ken break down the top five mistakes people make when chasing those health goals.

Watch us on YouTube: youtu.be/m6dTeLfywWY

Make sure to check the Facebook community to provide support to our three users and share your own goals with others! fullfocus.co/community

LifeFocus: A new, gamified approach to life planning that’s easy, fun, and gives you a GPS for your next 10 years. fullfocus.co/lifefocus

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Three Months Later: Our Three Planner Users Update Us On Their Big 2024 Goals May 06, 2024

Back in January, we spoke with three Full Focus Planner users about their biggest 2024 goals.

As a reminder, Dustin's goal was to write his first book by the end of Q3. Kerry's goal was to quit her full-time job and continue to grow her business. Ashley's goal was to complete a half Iron Man on July 28.

Today, we find out how it's going.

Watch us on YouTube: youtu.be/bjxICp6EMMo

Make sure to check the Facebook community to provide support to our three users and share your own goals with others! fullfocus.co/community

LifeFocus: A new, gamified approach to life planning that’s easy, fun, and gives you a GPS for your next 10 years. fullfocus.co/lifefocus

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

7 Questions to Change Your Life Apr 29, 2024

It sounds big and bold, but it's true: In today's episode, Marissa and Ken share 7 questions that, if answered thoughtfully, could change the trajectory of your life. It's the kind of claim that might make you want to not listen, but it's definitely worth finding out what the seven questions are and going from there. You've got nothing to lose and a whole life to gain.

Also, Marissa shares what she's learned about herself and her own values after her two-week trip to Europe.

Remember to take the LifeScore Assessment: fullfocus.co/lifescore

Also, if you want to dive deeper into finding your personal values and goals, check out fullfocus.co/lifefocus

Watch this episode on YouTube: youtu.be/-xA3xKmMY4A

Join us in the Full Focus Planner Community and find support as we all find success! fullfocus.co/community

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

3 Habits to Optimize Your Health Apr 22, 2024

Full Focus is happy to announce that we're running a challenge for our community to help refocus ourselves on habits that will help us revitalize both our physical and emotional health. In this episode, Marissa and Ken talk you through the Daily Big Three of this wellness challenge and provide some of the science behind why these specific practices were chosen.

Watch this episode on YouTube: youtu.be/A9nLzi6QUKA

Download your Wellness Challenge Tracker here: fullfocus.co/wellnesstracker

Join us in the Full Focus Planner Community and find support as we all find success! fullfocus.co/community

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Marissa & Ken Share Their Morning Routines Apr 15, 2024

Do you struggle to start your day on the right foot? In this episode, Marissa and Ken share their ideal morning routines, practical tips for creating a morning ritual that works for you, and how to overcome common obstacles.

Discover why Ken's wife wants him to wake up at 5 AM (and why he's resisting)
Learn the simple hack Marissa uses to streamline her supplement routine and stay consistent
Find out why Ken's shower habits might be the key to his daily mood and productivity
Uncover the one non-negotiable element of Marissa's morning routine that sets her up for success
Hear the unconventional "water therapy" strategy Marissa's mom swears by for managing meltdowns

Watch this episode on YouTube: youtube.com/watch?v=GNTOX_NXlL4

Make sure to join other enthusiastic Full Focus Planer users over in the Full Focus Planner community on Facebook: fullfocus.co/community

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Let's Talk About Your Productivity Hacks Apr 08, 2024

Ken asked his "fans" for some of their favorite productivity hacks. Today, Marissa and Ken discuss topics ranging from the power of ChatGPT for spreadsheets to the magic of starting messy. They also explore whether or not you should even use "hacks" to begin with! Lastly, the group discusses what's making them happy.

Watch this episode on YouTube to see Marissa's color palate thing (can you tell who writes these show notes?): https://youtu.be/-eE9Iru9584

Make sure to join other enthusiastic Full Focus Planer users over in the Full Focus Planner community on Facebook! www.fullfocus.co/community.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Pranks Hustle Culture Plays On You Apr 01, 2024

Ken and Nick get existential on an episode that was supposed to be about lighthearted "Productivity Pranks". While they do talk about the "pranks" of working longer hours and perpetual planning, Ken and Nick also stumble into a discussion about the concept of "enough" and their discomfort with stillness. Along the way, they invite listeners to simply start that one project they've been procrastinating on and they share some of the anxieties that they care around with them.

Watch the entire episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Fkxr0i-HUOg

Let us know if you're the one person who gets started on that project! Find the post over at https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Let's Do Our Quarterly Previews Together! Mar 25, 2024

It's the last Monday of Q1! You made it. Congratulations!

This means that it's time to do your Quarterly Preview so you can start to look ahead to Q2.

In this episode, Marissa & Ken walk you through the entire quarterly preview process and offer tips on how to complete each section. Along the way, they talk about prepping for your quarterly preview and Nick shares a story about how even the best laid plans can go awry.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/astRYxsnLyU

Want to listen to the Guided Quarterly Preview? Visit www.fullfocus.co/guidedquarterlypreview

If you want help developing a life plan, then make sure to visit www.fullfocus.co/retreat and look into the LifeFocus virtual retreat!

Make sure to join other enthusiastic Full Focus Planer users over in the Full Focus Planner community on Facebook! www.fullfocus.co/community.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What Happens When You Have Bailed On Your Goals? Mar 18, 2024

RIP Hot Girl Winter. We hardly knew ye.

Marissa talks about the unraveling of Hot Girl Winter and Ken discusses what went wrong with his family SOP. This episode is a dive into the chaos of missed targets and unexpected turns. It's a good reminder that even the best-laid plans can run straight into sickness or an icy front porch. What we do know is that something WILL get in the way of your goals, but the most important question is: How do you move forward from here?

If you want help developing a life plan, then make sure to visit www.fullfocus.co/lifefocus and look into the LifeFocus virtual retreat!

Make sure to join other enthusiastic Full Focus Planer users over in the Full Focus Planner community on Facebook! www.fullfocus.co/community.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How to Hack Your Google Calendar for Productivity Mar 11, 2024

Sometimes this podcast is about larger questions related to philosophy and values. Questions like "What do you want?" and "Who do you want to be?"

And, sometimes, this podcast is about the nitty-gritty of making focus and productivity work for you. This is one of those episodes. Over 500 million people use Google Calendar and there's a good chance that you're one of them. In this episode, Marissa and Ken (Google Calendar Superstars), talk you through their favorite tips for maximizing your digital calendar and how to use it in conjunction with your paper planner.

If you want help developing your own life plan, then make sure to visit www.fullfocus.co/lifefocus and look into the LifeFocus virtual retreat!

Make sure to join other enthusiastic Full Focus Planer users over in the Full Focus Planner community on Facebook! www.fullfocus.co/community.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Best Apps To Help You Be Productive in 2024 Mar 04, 2024

Here at Focus on This, we obviously love a paper planner. However, in our modern world, sometimes there is an app that can free up time in your day and space in your mind so you can focus on what matters most to you.

Today, Marissa and Ken talk you through some of their favorite apps in 2024.

To see the full list with links, click here: https://focusonthispodcast.com/podcast/228-achieve-more…for-goal-success/

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/4C7P5-yf5_c

Remember to pre-order your LifeFocus box today! https://fullfocusstore.com/pages/lifefocus

Need some inspiration and motivation? Join 30,000+ other Full Focus Planner folks on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Planner Hacks for the Next 10 Years Feb 26, 2024

Most people who listen to Focus on This are using some system to organize their days and to achieve the goals they've set for themselves. Today, Marissa and Ken talk about how to take your planner and use it sculpt your life. It's about taking the day-to-day and stretching it out to the year-to-year in a way that's intuitive, inspiring, and actionable.

If you want help developing your own life plan, then make sure to visit www.fullfocus.co/lifefocus and look into the LifeFocus virtual retreat!

Make sure to join other enthusiastic Full Focus Planer users over in the Full Focus Planner community on Facebook! www.fullfocus.co/community.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What Difference Does a Life Plan Actually Make? (Spoiler: It's more than you realize.) Feb 19, 2024

In a first for Focus on This, Michael Hyatt AND Megan Hyatt Miller join the show today! Not only are they in-studio to welcome Ken into the Hyatt Family, but they're also there to talk about their history with life planning and why everybody who sets intentional goals (especially Full Focus Planner users) needs a larger plan to help direct them where they want to go. How do you set the right annual goals if you don't even know where you want to be in 10 years?

To help you answer that question, the team at Full Focus has developed the new LifeFocus Life Planning Program. To learn more about all of the options, visit www.fullfocus.co/lifefocus.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/FG40KPKpdqM

Make sure to join other enthusiastic Full Focus Planer users over in the Full Focus Planner community on Facebook! www.fullfocus.co/community.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How to Develop and Maintain Deep Relationships Feb 12, 2024

This episode is absolutely for you even if you don't think it is.

Even though this is a show about goal achievement and productivity, it's also a show about the Double Win. That means winning at work and succeeding at life. What's a better measure of success that the quality of your relationships? That doesn't just mean your partner, it means your children, your parents, your colleagues, your neighbors... you can find deep and fulfilling relationships everywhere. You just have to be intentional.

If that isn't a good enough reason to listen, then here's something else: Research tells us that people with deep, fulfilling relationships live happier, healthier, and longer lives.

In this Valentine's Week episode, Marissa and Ken explore how to cultivate deep relationships with others and also how to maintain them.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/pU5dfaXUMtI

Remember that the LifeScore Assessment is something that is free, will help you identify areas of your life that might need some strengthening, AND you can do it right now: https://assessments.fullfocus.co/lifescore/

Remember to pre-order your LifeFocus box today! https://fullfocusstore.com/pages/lifefocus

Need some inspiration and motivation? Join 30,000+ other Full Focus Planner folks on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Want to be productive? You need to Life Plan. (Seriously.) Feb 05, 2024

As you know, the Full Focus Planner is built on the structure of the Daily Big 3, Weekly Big 3, Quarterly Goals, and Annual Goals. You take big ideas and distill them down into daily actions. But, if you just stop at annual goals, then you're missing a larger piece of the puzzle. How do you even know which goals you should be setting each year if you don't have a larger vision for what you want your life to look like?

In this episode, Ken is joined by Full Focus's Chief Content Officer, Joel Miller. Joel talks about the importance of having a life plan as it applies to setting the goals you need to get where you want to go. Finding your overall "Why" is a huge element in finding the motivation you need to succeed at your tasks daily.

Order LifeFocus at www.fullfocus.co/lifefocus.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-UAGAekL3xU

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Are You Setting The Right Goals For Yourself? Jan 29, 2024

We're at the end of January and, for some of your goals, you might be hitting the messy middle. This is a great opportunity to reconnect with your "why". Why are you pursuing this difficult goal in the first place? Who are you trying to become?

That's where the idea of a Life Plan comes into play. In today's episode, Marissa is joined by Full Focus Founder, Michael Hyatt. They share the five hidden costs of not having a life plan. A life plan provide you with a GPS so that you can become the person that you want to be in the next decade or more. And once you know who you want to be, then you can make sure you're setting goals that point you in the direction you need to go.

You can watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/sI4l2jBWsbw

To learn more about the brand new LifeFocus approach to planing your life, then visit www.fullfocus.co/lifefocus.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Three Planner Users Share Their Big 2024 Goals With Us Jan 22, 2024

2024 is in full swing and we wanted to check in on some of the wonderful members of the Full Focus Planner Community to see what big goals they have planned for this year. In this episode, Marissa and Ken speak with Kerry, Ashley, and Dustin about their big goals and how they plan to reach them. Whether it is completing a half Iron Man, writing a book, or quitting your job to pursue your business, the Full Focus Planner can help you get where you want to be. Hopefully, our guests' honesty and ambition can help provide you with the skills and motivation to achieve your dreams, too.

If YOU have big dreams, make sure to visit the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook and find other people just like you. If nothing else, go give Kerry, Ashley, and Dustin a shoutout to help push them forward!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How to Crush Your Goals in 2024 Jan 15, 2024

We're entering into the third week of 2024. You're already on your way to making real progress on the goals you set for the first quarter. While it might seem counterintuitive, this is a great time to review the basics of goal achievement. Having the basics under your belt will make it easier when the going gets rough.

In this episode, Marissa & Ken talk you through some of the critical elements of the Full Focus Planner. They also answer a couple of questions from the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook about specific planner features.

Watch this on YouTube! https://youtu.be/JXR0wT5872I

Remember to pre-order your LifeFocus box today! https://fullfocusstore.com/pages/lifefocus

Need some inspiration and motivation? Join 30,000+ other Full Focus Planner folks on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How to Use Your Full Focus Planner to Maximize Your Goal Achievement Jan 08, 2024

As we head into the second week of 2024, Marissa and Ken share some of the habits and resources that you should use in order to achieve your goals this year. After that, they visit the show from the future to each share a Q1 goal with you - structured in the SMARTER Framework, of course. Let's keep moving forward!

You'll learn:

How you can use a sticky note in your planner to keep track of your tasks
Why you should really consider designing your Ideal Week
All about Hot Girl Winter
How Ken is turning his home into a factory (just kidding!)

Watch this on YouTube! https://youtu.be/cj5p9b3PK5w

Want to learn more about the new LifeFocus product that Marissa mentioned? https://fullfocusstore.com/pages/lifefocus

Need some inspiration and motivation? Join 30,000+ other Full Focus Planner folks on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Kickstart 2024 with Marissa & Ken: Essential Planner Tips for a Successful Year Jan 01, 2024

2024 is finally here and we're ready to help make it your best year ever!

No matter how far along you are on your goal-writing process, simply having goals isn't enough to be successful. You have to have some strategies to help you achieve those goals. That's what the Full Focus Planner is all about. It helps you to find traction on your own goals and dreams.

Today, Marissa and Ken each share their top 3 tips for achieving success with the Full Focus Planner. That's 6 simple actions that you can take to take control of your year. How cool is that?

Oh. Also, Ken does a thing. It's probably worth watching the video of this one.

Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/zQ5kzochNwg

Don't forget that Marissa and Ken are your hosts for 'Your Best Year Ever Live'! Grab your free ticket by getting the Full Focus Goal Setting course. Check it out at www.fullfocus.co/goalsetting.

And hey, join our gang of over 30,000 Full Focus Planner folks on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Christmas Morning with Marissa & Ken ❤︎ Dec 25, 2023

Merry Christmas! With Christmas falling on a Monday, it is safe to assume that most people's routines are a bit jumbled this morning. So, rather than an entire episode about goal achievement, we thought we'd just pop in and provide you with some comfort on this Christmas morning.

We also take a quick peek ahead at this crucial week between Christmas and New Year's as we get ready to set the SMARTER goals that we need to be successful in 2024. But... it's just a quick peek.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Dry_kShZ75k

Don't forget that Marissa and Ken are your hosts for 'Your Best Year Ever Live'! Grab your free ticket by getting the Full Focus Goal Setting course. Check it out at www.fullfocus.co/goalsetting.

And hey, join our gang of over 30,000 Full Focus Planner folks on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Using an Annual Review to Power Your Way Into 2024 Dec 18, 2023

Shakespeare once said, "What's past is prologue." Basically, the past is just the beginning of what comes next. There is, perhaps, no other moment when that is more clear than at the end of the calendar year. While it is tempting to simply start making new goals for 2024, it's important to stop and make sense of what happened in 2023. That look back is how we learn and grow.

In this episode, Marissa and Ken talk you through completing an annual review to set yourself up your best year ever. Also, the crew debates the merits of the rituals of the rich and famous.

Watch Marissa's reaction to Ken's cartoon preferences here: https://youtu.be/kUa3tjm77eQ

Don't forget that Marissa and Ken are your hosts for 'Your Best Year Ever Live'! Grab your free ticket by getting the Full Focus Goal Setting course. Check it out at www.fullfocus.co/goalsetting.

And hey, join our gang of over 30,000 Full Focus Planner folks on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Beginner's Guide to Goal Setting Dec 11, 2023

2024 is almost here, and if you're aiming to nail your goals, it's time to think deeply about what those goals are and how to set them up right. In this episode, Marissa and Ken walk you through all the basics of writing awesome goals that'll put you on the path to success.

Even if you're planning to join the 'Your Best Year Ever Live' event on January 5, getting a grip on these goal-setting basics is going to boost your chances of coming up with goals that really work for you.

Plus, Nick throws in a surprise for Marissa and Ken with three productivity videos from the internet to see what if the ideas are rejected or approved. Yep, it's another round of HOT TAKES. You'll definitely want to watch this one on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_FKvetUfSiU

Don't forget that Marissa and Ken are your hosts for 'Your Best Year Ever Live'! Grab your free ticket by getting the Full Focus Goal Setting course. Check it out at www.fullfocus.co/goalsetting.

And hey, join our gang of over 30,000 Full Focus Planner folks on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Confessions of a Reluctant Goal Setter with Gail Hyatt Dec 04, 2023

Gail Hyatt joins the show today. She's Michael Hyatt's wife AND... Marissa's mom. She's here to share what it means to be a reluctant goal setter in a family that not only loves to set goals, but literally wrote the book on how to do it. She talks about the life domains that are most important to her and how the planner has given her permission to prioritize herself.

Become a Certified Pro and join the Full Focus Planner Digital Planner Beta Team! www.fullfocus.co/pro

Check out all of the deals at the Full Focus Store: www.fullfocusstore.com

Join our 30,000+ Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

Watch this episode on YouTube:

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Marissa & Ken Finish Answering Your Questions! Nov 30, 2023

After running long in part one, Marissa and Ken finish answering listener questions directly from the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook. In this episode, they answer questions like:

What if I only write lame, boring goals?
How do you use the planner when you have 12-hour shifts?
How do you use the Full Focus System as an organization?
How do I go to bed on time?
Is a goal different from a resolution?

Become a Certified Pro and join the Full Focus Planner Digital Planner Beta Team! www.fullfocus.co/pro

Check out all of the deals at the Full Focus Store: www.fullfocusstore.com

Join our 30,000+ Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/3chB8aCV0lI

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Marissa & Ken Answer Your Questions! Nov 27, 2023

It's Marissa and Ken's first Q&A! They take questions submitted by listeners and members of the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook. Questions include:

How do I keep my goals top of mind?
How do you plan time off?
How do you get back into the planner groove after vacation?
How do I use the system as a busy mom?
How do I adjust when life throws a curveball?

Become a Certified Pro and join the Full Focus Planner Digital Planner Beta Team! www.fullfocus.co/pro

Make sure to check out all of the Cyber Monday Deals at www.fullfocusstore.com.

Join our 30,000+ Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

Watch this video on Youtube: https://youtu.be/LBqPgfybaY0

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Thanks-Living: 4 Ways Gratitude Can Transform Your Life Nov 20, 2023

It's Thanksgiving Week and before Marissa, Ken, and Nick debate their favorite Thanksgiving dishes, they have a conversation about how gratitude can make an enormous difference in your life. It can be easy to skip this gratitude step, but really does impact your goal achievement as well as how you feel - and how those around you feel.

Make sure to check out all of the Black Friday Week Deals at www.fullfocusstore.com.

Join our 30,000+ Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

Watch this video on Youtube: https://youtu.be/MQuMW_Q-rjc

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Journaling For The Reluctant Journaler (That's You.) Nov 13, 2023

If you're somebody who saw the world "journal" in the title and said, "I'm going to skip this one," then it's unlikely that you're actually reading this description. However, this episode *is* for you. Marissa talks Ken (and Nick) through the benefits of journaling - especially for the person who doesn't consider themself a "journal person".

See Ken modeling the new Double Win hat (and watch the entire episode) on YouTube: https://youtu.be/65JA7VAMaQ4

To sign up for the Double Win Collective waitlist, visit www.fullfocus.co/doublewincollective

Join our 30,000+ Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

To see the Feelings Wheel, visit https://feelingswheel.com/

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Three Things In Your Life You Can Actually Change Nov 06, 2023

The world is chaotic. On any given day, there are countless things beyond your control, and your best option is to maintain a positive mindset and find the best way to adapt to these situations. However, there are some things that you—and only you—can control.

This week, Marissa and Ken dive into three aspects of your life that are under your control, which can help you in becoming the person you want to be.

Also, we introduce a new segment called "Hot Takes!" This should be fun!

Make sure to check out the new planners and get your free hat at www.fullfocusstore.com.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/h0J5lAy6AWU

To sign up for the Double Win Collective waitlist, visit www.fullfocus.co/doublewincollective

Join our 30,000+ Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Why Your Squad Matters More Than You Think! Oct 30, 2023

You know the saying, "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." That quote highlights that while you might be able to bareknuckle your way to start a goal, sustaining that momentum is very difficult unless you have a community of people to help you throughout the process. In short: Community is essential if you want to achieve all of your goals.

In this episode, Marissa and Ken talk you through four ways that community helps you grow into who you want to be. Along the way, they'll provide tips for how you can find your own people. Also, and equally as important, the crew talk about their favorite (and least favorite) candy.

Also, Marissa shares a sneak peek at the newest planner colors AND a bit of fun merch. You’ll have to watch the YouTube video to see! https://youtu.be/qy3fekaqnxw

To sign up for the Double Win Collective waitlist, visit www.fullfocus.co/doublewincollective

Join our 30,000+ Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Four Fears That Keep You Stuck... And How to Conquer Them! Oct 23, 2023

As we approach Halloween, Marissa & Ken share four fears that keep people from achieving their own goals. Along the way they'll discuss their own experiences with fear and offer some insights into how you might conquer some of your own.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/XFB4Y90gR24

Conquer your own fears right now and join the Full Focus Planner Community over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank.

If you're looking for a new Full Focus Planner to go with our new Focus on This hosts, then make sure to visit www.fullfocusplanner.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How to Still Accomplish Your Goals During a Busy Q4 Oct 16, 2023

We get it. Q4 can be very busy. However, you still have goals that you want to accomplish this quarter. So, how can you maintain the energy you need to keep doing the important work day in and day out?

In this episode, Marissa and Ken will give you some helpful tips to finishing the year strong. They talk about managing a busy calendar, identifying your non-negotiables, and staying grounded during chaotic days. Ken shares some of his Q4 goals and Nick takes a live COVID test.

To see Marissa's not-so-chair-colored clothing and Nick's live COVID test, you'll definitely want to watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/WGKNxTVmUg0

Make sure to join the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook. We have a lot of exciting things in store. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

If you're looking for a new Full Focus Planner to go with our new Focus on This hosts, then make sure to visit www.fullfocusplanner.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Meet the New Hosts! Oct 09, 2023

Happy Monday, everybody! It's a big day because it's Marissa and Ken's first episode! To get things started, they share a little bit about how they got to this moment, their favorite productivity tools, and what they're excited about for the future of Focus on This. Smattered in there are some fun questions like first concert, pet peeves, and their most irrational fears (nobody get any ideas).

Watch this episode and check out our work-in-progress studio: https://youtu.be/CS97xx_nhZY

Make sure to join the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook. We have a lot of exciting things in store. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

If you're looking for a new Full Focus Planner to go with our new Focus on This hosts, then make sure to visit www.fullfocusplanner.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Goodbye & Hello: It's a Season of Change at Focus on This Oct 02, 2023

It is the last episode of Focus on This with Verbs and Blake as your intrepid hosts. They, along with a very exciting surprise guest, reflect on what they've learned through doing 200+ episodes. They also talk about what's next for them and we meet the new hosts of Focus on This.

This is definitely an episode worth checking out on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-CGrgW9xdlw

Support Verbs by checking out Village KNG:

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@villagekng

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/village-kng/1671233517

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6SnUxpitK0rM5MKQFJ7NmZ

Check out Blake's newsletter and sign-up for personal coaching:

www.blakestratton.com

Check out "AI Knowhow" - Courtney's new podcast all about leadership in the AI Era*:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4umjv0k2QPRUibC2zwzPjW

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ai-knowhow/id1707117410

For more on Knownwell, visit www.knownwell.com.

Make sure that YOU are in the Full Focus Planner Community to see what Focus on This has in store: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

(*A favorite producer of yours might also work on it...)

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How Purpose Fuels Productivity Sep 25, 2023

Ken Freire stops by the show for the first time today and the crew gets deep. They talk about the importance of finding your purpose - in ways both big and small - and how that journey also helps you to live the life that leads to a feeling of fulfillment. ]

In this episode, you will learn:

How finding your purpose jumpstarts your daily productivity
The key questions Ken's mentor asked to help him find his purpose
How all of your experiences have value
How your past, seemingly unrelated experiences are like going to Radio Shack

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/C6wrvmXnVJ4

Make sure that YOU are in the Full Focus Planner Community with all of the other cool people who are achieving the goals they've set for themselves: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Creating a Vision Board: Finding Your Focus Sep 18, 2023

Marissa Hyatt, expert vision boarder, stops by the show to talk about her history with and love of vision boards. Blake also shares how he uses digital methods to create a vision for his future. Along the way, they talk about the *why* of vision boards and how they can help provide the clarity you need to plan your path to the future you want.

In this episode, you will learn:

The purpose and benefits of creating a vision board.
Different ways to create a vision board, including digital and physical options.
The importance of visualizing and calibrating your future goals.
How to start creating a vision board by focusing on areas where you are thriving.

Watch Verb's camera fail on YouTube: https://youtu.be/IhvPnFOZ0wE

Make sure that YOU are in the Full Focus Planner Community with all of the other cool people who are achieving the goals they've set for themselves: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Most Underrated Resource for Goal Achievement Sep 11, 2023

Have you ever found yourself in the “messy middle” of a goal? You’ve come too far to turn back, but the finish line still feels far away. Do you let the goal slide and give up? Do you grit your teeth and just push through, even if you’re running on empty? How do you get through this part of the journey?

In this episode, Blake and Verbs talk with Marissa Hyatt, director of marketing, about one of the most valuable resources for goal achievement: encouragement. They go over four actions you can take to refuel emotionally and replenish your confidence, sense of agency, and belief—and get to the other side.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How to make encouragement a natural part of your relationships
Why you should curate your media for your current emotional needs
The power of the phrase “if I say so”
The surprising value of a daily treasure hunt

Resources:

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Answering Questions from the Community Sep 04, 2023

What do you do if you find yourself in the same place week after week? How do you balance the Ideal Week with a hectic life that makes it difficult to plan ahead?

In this episode, LeJon Brames... err... Blake and Verbs tackle questions from the community. They also talk about Dr. Seuss and turtles for some reason. Remember, this is the most productive podcast on the internet.

To watch this whole episode on YouTube, visit https://youtu.be/p21D5Bn7LaI

Make sure that YOU are in the Full Focus Planner Community with all of the other cool people who are achieving the goals they've set for themselves: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Using Your Planner During Transitions Aug 28, 2023

Stacie Simpson returns to the show to discuss the importance of resetting and setting new goals after a busy season. She shares her experience of working at a summer camp and how her team uses the Full Focus Planner to stay organized and aligned. She also emphasizes the value of consistent planner usage and offers advice for getting back on track if you've taken a break. Somewhere along the way, they talk about fried foods, too.

In this episode, you will:

Learn the benefits of setting a reset button and evaluating goals after a busy season
Discover how to integrate personal goals into your planner and find work-life balance
Gain insights on how Stacey's team uses the Full Focus Planner to stay organized and aligned

To reach out to Stacie or to find out more about her Live Weekly Preview session, visit https://www.staciesimpsonconsulting.com/focus.

Watch this episode on YouTube:

Make sure to visit the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook to find thousands of other planner users: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Power-Up and Refresh Your Goals Aug 21, 2023

When our goals no longer feel exciting, the pursuit can feel cumbersome. It feels like everything is a drag, like there’s something wrong with your goals or the way you set them. Should you just let your goals crumble and aim for different goals next time?

In this episode, Verbs and Blake walk through four key actions you can take to refresh your goals. Follow them closely to get back on track and make your goals exciting again.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

One of the best actions you can take in between quarters
The question to ask yourself to move forward on your goals
How to reassess the relevance of your goals
Why changing goals can be necessary—and even good

Resources:

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Power of Constraints: Do Less, Achieve More Aug 14, 2023

You’ve bought into a cultural fallacy: if you do more and work tirelessly, you’ll achieve more and get the results you want. The problem is, it’s not working. Burnout is high, quality drops, and it’s not sustainable. How can you keep cranking out results without constantly running on fumes?

In this episode, Verbs and Blake walk you through three constraints you can leverage to maximize your output for incredible results. You can say goodbye to doing more and more but receiving less and less when you leverage the power of constraints.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How setting fewer goals sets you up for success
Why a shorter to-do list makes you more productive and feeling satisfied
Verbs’s approach to the Daily Big 3
The danger of not having a hard start and stop to your day

Resources:

Full Focus Planner Community

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Getting That Big Goal Done Aug 07, 2023

We all have that one big goal that we'd love to accomplish but we sometimes we don't sincerely believe that we can actually do it. In this episode, we're joined again by Full Focus Certified Pro and new author, Jake Brown. Jake talks about how the Full Focus Planner set him up to finish his new book. In fact, the system was so effective that he wasn't even aware of how close he was to finishing his manuscript until one day he realized that he was done. He also shares with Nick what his research has taught him about what it means to be happy at work.

To pick up Jake's book, visit http://jakebrown.co/.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0acugsG1nvU

Make sure to visit the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook to find thousands of other planner users: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Goal Achievement and Your Brain: Executive Function Jul 31, 2023

In order for us to be productive throughout the day and achieve the goals that we've set for ourselves, we rely on a set of mental processes called executive functioning skills. Whether or not you're familiar with the term, you're using these skills every day.

In today's episode, Full Focus Certified Pro Nicole Santamaria drops by the show again and talks with Nick about executive functioning and how she uses elements of the Full Focus System while working with children and teachers. Along the way, they'll touch on everything to the fear of achievement, the "planner person" label, and typing class.

In this episode, listeners will learn about:

The concept of executive functioning skills
The transformational role of the Full Focus Planner in enhancing executive functioning skills
Strategies for gaining buy-in from children
The vital role parents, teachers, and specialists can play in nurturing executive functioning skills in everyday life and classroom settings

To learn more about Nicole, visit her website at https://www.nicolesantamaria.com/

Nicole's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nicolesantamariaot

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/4wKwZG6l3z8

Make sure to visit the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook to find thousands of other planner users: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

3 Goal Achievement Revelations From A Pro! Jul 24, 2023

Full Focus Planner Certified Pro Andrea Liebross is back on the show! She shares with Nick three revelations that she's had about goal achievement. Whether it's reassessing the way you plan and schedule, understanding the difference between interest and commitment, or recognizing your 'zone of extraordinary achievement,' there's something in this episode for everyone.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Why planning and scheduling are just as important as execution
How to discern between mere interest and genuine commitment
The concept of the "zone of extraordinary achievement"

To find out more about Andrea's upcoming book (She Thinks Big: The Entrepreneurial Woman's Guide to Moving Past the Messy Middle and Into the Extraordinary), visit www.andreaslinks.com.

Make sure to visit the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook to find thousands of other planner users: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Value of a Summer Reset Jul 17, 2023

We looked it up and we are officially in the "Dog Days of Summer". Yes, that is a real thing that starts on July 3 and lasts through August 11. Since this is the first episode of the Dog Days of Summer, we thought it would be a good time to talk about how a summer reset can set you up for a Q3 that will help propel you to your goals. To help us, we are joined by Full Focus Planner Certified Pro, Jeremy Clopton.

In addition to the summer reset, Jeremy and Nick talk about:

Having a perfect Ideal Week
The Workday Shutdown
Planner Shame
A sequential Daily Big 3?
And, of course, writing utensils.

To reach out to Jeremy, visit him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremyclopton

Remember to get all of the vacation help you need with our Vacation Optimizer! Go to https://fullfocus.co/vacation/ to get your free download.

Make sure to visit the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook to find thousands of other planner users: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

200th Episode Showdown: Can ChatGPT Replace Us? Jul 10, 2023

For the 200th episode of Focus on This, Nick asks ChatGPT to provide some productivity advice while Blake and Verbs decide how accurate it is and ponder whether or not they'll be replaced soon. Along the way, "Blake Shelton" writes a song about productivity, Nick shares some items off of his desk, Blake antagonizes AI, and Verbs offers a final verdict on their future.

Remember to get all of the vacation help you need with our Vacation Optimizer! Go to https://fullfocus.co/vacation/ to get your free download.

Make sure to visit the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook to find thousands of other planner users: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Why You Need an Unplugged Vacation Jul 03, 2023

It is officially summer which means that it is time for a vacation. You have planned your vacation already, right? You do realize that taking time for you and your family is super important, right? It's just a fact that taking time for yourself helps with decreasing stress, improving your health, and even career success.

So, if you haven't a vacation (or even if you have!), Blake, Verbs, and Nick are here to tell you why taking a vacation is so important.

You will learn:

How vacations can stimulate your mental rejuvenation similar to meditative exercises
The surprising link between regular vacations and improved physical health indicators, like blood pressure, sugar, and cholesterol
The role of vacations in strengthening family bonds and friendships
The inspirational potential of vacations in reigniting your passion and driving your ambitions

Remember to get all of the vacation help you need with our Vacation Optimizer! Go to https://fullfocus.co/vacation/ to get your free download.

Make sure to visit the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook to find thousands of other planner users: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Peak Performers: Unpacking the Productivity Habits of the Famous Jun 26, 2023

While the Full Focus Planner has been developed relatively recently, people have found ways to be productive for thousands of years. How did Maya Angelou write more than 30 books? How did Thomas Edison invent so many life-changing products? How did Benjamin Franklin have the time and energy to do practically everything? In this episode, Blake, Verbs, and Nick uncover those answers and they filter their processes through the Full Focus System and see how their routines compare to what thousands of planner users do every day. The crew also learns more about Thomas Edison than they wanted.

See Verb's webcam overheat in the YouTube edit of this episode: https://youtu.be/3bjw-F3QW3s

Make sure to visit the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook to find thousands of other planner users: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dedication Diaries: One Planner User's Story Jun 19, 2023

Chuck is the kind of guy we all want to be. He's kind, caring, and funny. But, despite his achievements, Chuck always felt like he wasn't organized enough to achieve the goals that he set for himself. Then, after taking a new job in 2018, a colleague and friend of Chuck gave him a Full Focus Planner. After that, he dove straight into the entire Full Focus System including setting a life plan for himself. The results he achieved weren't just felt by him but his family and colleagues also noticed the difference. When he was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, Chuck used the Full Focus System to keep that under control.

In this episode, Chuck Sullivan speaks with Nick about his journey into the Full Focus System, where he is now, and what's next. It's the story of one person finding clarity through the planner and it's the kind of story that we hear about all of the time at Full Focus. We felt it was time to feature one on the podcast.

To view this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ZcVPSnQSYR0

Make sure to visit the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook to find thousands of other planner users: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"It's not just me!": We Answer Your Questions Jun 12, 2023

Remember when you were in school and the teacher would say, "Please ask any questions you have because somebody else might have the same one"? Well, that's what today's episode is all about!

In this episode, Blake and Verbs tackle some great questions directly from the Full Focus Planner Community. Hopefully your teacher was right and there's some answers for you within the other students' questions.

Topics include:

Helping one user rethink their morning ritual
"Aren't most achievement goals just habit goals?"
Two apps that Blake uses in the morning
What do you do with old planners?
What do you do when all of your quarterly plans get thrown out the window?

To see Verbs and Blake stimulate their thinking, make sure to watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/P0uhW4gd8xY

Make sure to visit the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook to find thousands of other planner users: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

4 Methods to Boost Your Energy Jun 05, 2023

At the end of a long work day, it is very easy to collapse on the couch and spend the rest of your waking hours staring at a screen. That's great if that's a goal you've set for yourself, but for most people they wish that they had more energy so they could accomplish the tasks that are important to them. In this episode, Blake and Verbs talk you through four different methods to boost your energy so that you'll have what you need to move forward.

In this episode, you will learn:

Practical strategies to shift from time management to energy management
How existing tools within the Full Focus System are designed to help you increase energy
What it means to "lose time to gain time"

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/AMhnRsABhYs

Make sure to visit the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook to find thousands of other planner users: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Running a Business with the Full Focus Planner May 29, 2023

If running a business was easy, then everybody would do it. However, being a business owner means juggling a seemingly endless array of tasks with endless deadlines. In today's episode, Blake and Verbs share three ways that the Full Focus System takes the complicated life business owner life and provides clarity and peace of mind.

In this episode you will:

Find out how the Daily Big 3 works with a very busy and diverse schedule
Learn how the Full Focus System provides balance to your life
Discover how the planner illuminates unnecessary work

To watch this episode on YouTube, visit https://youtu.be/j-12fCuIwhE.

If you’re a business owner who loves the Full Focus Planner, consider what else Full Focus can do for you by scheduling a free call to find out more about the BusinessAccelerator coaching system. Just visit www.businessaccelerator.com to learn more.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

4 Types of Automation for Busy People May 22, 2023

We're all busy. One day you were just some person with few responsibilities and then, seemingly the next day, you're entire calendar is booked and you still have an overflowing to-do list. In order to accomplish all of this, we're going to need energy. The best way to get energy is through taking time off to focus on the people, activities, and things that you love. That creates quite a conundrum: How do you get more done with less available hours?

In this episode, Blake and Verbs share four different kinds of automation that you can use to help you recapture that essential work/life balance.

You will learn:

How daily rituals buy you time and energy
How your Full Focus Planner is designed to automate elements of your day
How technology can help you automate various tasks

Make sure to get the free Spring Cleaning Guide for your To-Do List at www.fullfocus.co/spring

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ZO5gk9kyKSw

Make sure to visit the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook to find thousands of other planner users: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How to Make New Habits Stick May 15, 2023

Why is forming new habits - the good ones, at least - so hard to do? We've often heard that it take 21 days to develop a new habit, but personal experience tells many of us that it takes much longer than three weeks to truly install the kinds of habits that we feel will make our lives happier, healthier, and more productive. It's important to understand how to do this right because every time that we feel like we've failed at developing a new habit, we're likely to have feelings of extreme disappointment or shame and, maybe we'll be less inclined to try again next time. Luckily, there are ways to help us get back on track!

In this episode, Blake and Verbs talk about three strategies to help your new habits stick. Also, Nick speaks with Andy Bachert about how he's used the Full Focus Planner in his own life as an organizational leader.

Make sure to get the free Spring Cleaning Guide for your To-Do List at www.fullfocus.co/spring

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/QDTGX-pmef4

Make sure to visit the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook to find thousands of other planner users: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Very Simple Strategies to Banish Distractions May 08, 2023

Our modern world is full of distractions. For example, on average, a person will look at their phone 350 times a day. 350 times in a day! If you sleep 8 hours a night, that works out to almost once every two minutes. How are you supposed to reach your goals if your rhythm is always interrupted by a notification on your phone, a Slack message from your colleague, or a ring at the front door?

In this episode, Blake and Verbs offer three strategies to help you minimize the distractions in your day. You will learn how to:

Recognize the specific activities or triggers that waste your time and make you lose focus
Establish boundaries with the people in your life
Use the Full Focus Planner to keep distractions at bay

Make sure to get the free Spring Cleaning Guide for your To-Do List at www.fullfocus.co/spring

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/iG0uUvWiq7c

Make sure to visit the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook to find thousands of other planner users: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Three Reasons You Find Yourself in the Distraction Zone May 01, 2023

What is your go-to task when you're supposed to be doing another more important task? Is it organizing your desk? Checking Slack messages? Folding laundry? Whatever your go-to task is, it will lead you to the same place: The Distraction Zone. This is a concept first described in Michael Hyatt's book, Free to Focus. It describes the area where you're not contributing anything valuable towards your or your team's goals. We're all going to slide in there occasionally, but the goal is to minimize the amount of time we spend in there.

In this episode, Blake, Courtney, and Verbs explain what the Distraction Zone is and provide three reasons why you might find yourself there. After that, in a Focus on This first, we hear a selection from an episode of Full Focus' other podcast: Business Accelerator. In this segment, host Joel Miller speaks with business coach Dustin Guyton about goalsetting and the things that stand in our way. There's some very valuable stuff in there that you won't want to miss.

For more from the Business Accelerator podcast, visit www.businessaccelerator.com/podcast.

Make sure to get the free Spring Cleaning Guide for your To-Do List at www.fullfocus.co/spring

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/kEUo3iD-5PQ

Make sure to visit the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook to find thousands of other planner users: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How to Negotiate Out of Stuff Apr 24, 2023

We've all been there: You volunteer to help out with an extra thing at work or you tell a friend that you'll help them over the weekend. Then, as the event itself approaches, you realize that you simply do not have the time or energy and you shouldn't have agreed to do this in the first place. Well, there's good news: There are times when you can gracefully back out of situations like this.

Blake, Courtney, and Verbs talk about these tricky situations and offer some tips on how to back out of obligations without leaving the other person high and dry. Also, Courtney speaks with Full Focus' Director of Coaching, Darilynn Hammond.

Make sure to get the free Spring Cleaning Guide for your To-Do List at www.fullfocus.co/spring

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/cgHYM8NOMTs

Make sure to visit the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook to find thousands of other planner users: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

You Are Who You're With: Stories of Achievement Apr 17, 2023

We've all heard the phrase, "You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with." But, how does that apply to goal achievement and productivity?

In this episode, Blake and Verbs share stories of how they changed their environments to achieve their own goals. Blake tells a story from his college days while Verbs tells a much more recent story (that actually connects to a goal that he's discussed on the podcast before).

If you want to surround yourself with the right people to achieve your goals, then you'll definitely want to check out the Full Focus Planner Community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/D4bVVyfUcZ0

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's Time To Write Your Not-To-Do List Apr 10, 2023

Spring is the perfect time of year to look at your priorities. Think of it as a Spring Cleaning for your priorities!

When you spend a minute looking at what is important to you and what isn’t, you can streamline your tasks and see a clearer picture of where you’re spending your time.

A ‘Not-to-do List’ is where you take a list of activities or commitments and highlight anything that you won’t do or attend in the future. You essentially Spring Clean any unnecessary tasks right off of your plate. That means more time and energy to focus on what is important to you.

In this episode, Courtney, Blake, and Verbs, talk about the power of a ‘not-to-do-list’ and the benefits of spring cleaning your commitments. Plus, Nick and Courtney share some bits of technology that are bringing them peace of mind.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Hi52RQKEAfQ

Merlin Bird ID app: https://merlin.allaboutbirds.org/

Courtney's Bird Feeder: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00YSU3WG2

Courtney's Sunglasses Pouch: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QXN3SM7

Courtney's Airtag Dog Collar: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09Y17VWD7

Make sure to visit the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook to find thousands of other planner users: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Most Overlooked Question You Can Ask Apr 03, 2023

When we want to get something accomplished, we tend to think of skills, habits, or tools that we can add to help us reach our goal. However, often times, the real trick to goal achievement isn't what you can add, but what you can subtract.

Blake, Courtney, and Verbs offer three different categories (life domains) that you can ask yourself: "What should I stop doing?" They give examples from their own lives of habits or commitments that they've stopped doing (or really want to stop doing).

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/UQ_nISF_Oio

Make sure to visit the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook to find thousands of other planner users: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

3 Steps to Calendar Triage Mar 27, 2023

Have you ever been in the middle of a difficult week only to have an urgent situation added to your plate? In those moments, it’s so easy to freak out. It feels impossible to get everything done. While it might feel counterintuitive, the real trick to accomplishing more is stepping back and making space to get the important tasks done.

Verbs, Courtney, and Blake share 3 steps to triaging your calendar when your life suddenly gets out of hand. After that, Courtney speaks with Elizabeth Lynch. Elizabeth is the Executive Assistant for Full Focus CEO Megan Hyatt Miller. Elizabeth shares some insight on how she's able to keep her home life moving forward without stressing out.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/vJIsnRSKLZw

Make sure to visit the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook to find thousands of other planner users: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Know Your Enemy: Defeating Your Productivity Obstacles Mar 20, 2023

The old saying "Know Your Enemy" is derived from Sun Tzu's book, The Art of War - a Chinese military treatise that dates back to the fifth century BC. While it's doubtful that Sun Tzu had your Daily Big 3 in mind (but, maybe he did), we can use that ancient advice to battle the obstacles that stand in the way of achieving our goals.

Courtney, Blake, and Verbs share with you two steps to making headway on defeating your productivity obstacles. After that, Courtney speaks with Full Focus Planner Certified Pro, Gary Smith, about focusing on the Full Focus system in order to achieve success.

To learn more about Gary and his coaching services, visit www.garylsmith.com.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/XI-5L-qZN-o

Make sure to visit the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook to find thousands of other planner users: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Remember Why You Started Mar 13, 2023

The “messy middle” is a place where we’ve come too far to go back but we can’t yet see what’s up ahead - and it’s normal. In fact, if you haven’t hit the messy middle yet, you probably will soon.

The messy middle is typically where we feel we’ve hit the end of our own resources. It's at this moment that you have to start getting creative and asking for help. But the most important resource in the messy middle is motivation. And that’s at the heart of what we’re talking about today.

Blake, Courtney, and Verbs talk about two reasons that it is important to remember why you started. After that, Courtney speaks with Full Focus Planner Certified Pro, Valeria Gray. They talk about how she uses the Full Focus System with her clients and offers some tips that you can use right away.

For more information on how you can work with Valeria, visit https://valeriagary.com/fullfocusconsulting.

Watch this on YouTube: https://youtu.be/FdMsR9kX278

To find other FFP Certified Pros like Valeria, visit www.fullfocus.co/directory.

Make sure to visit the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more podcasts, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

2 Reasons to Trade Remembering for Writing Mar 06, 2023

Let's face it: We have a tendency to be overconfident about what we can remember. We think we'll remember the important ideas from that meeting or the date of that event or the email that you have to send. By simply relying on our memory to get us through our lives, we put some of our most important goals and priorities at risk.

Blake, Courtney, and Verbs offer two reasons that you should trust your memory less and trust your pens and pencils more. After that, Courtney speaks with Full Focus Planner Certified Pro, Conor Scholes. He speaks with her about how he uses the planner to focus his Enneagram 4 personality.

To reach out to Conor, find him in our Certified Pro directoy: fullfocus.co/directory. (Remember to select the label "Earners".)

You can also find Conor and thousands of other planner users in the Full Focus Planner Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/rSrqEjIgbLE

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Using Your Enneagram Type to Maximize Your Planner Feb 27, 2023

Understanding your personality type is a helpful tool to unlocking ways to become more productive and satisfied. Of course, the Full Focus Planner is a great tool for everybody, but in this episode, we break down every Enneagram personality type and how you can leverage the planner to achieve your best results.

Courtney talks with Terrie Power. Terrie is both a Full Focus Planner Certified Pro and certified Enneagram Coach so she's the perfect person for this episode. They'll go through every type and discuss strengths and areas of improvement. Also, don't worry if you're not familiar with Enneagram types, Terrie quickly describes each one near the start of the episode.

To work directly with Terrie, visit https://www.terriepowercoaching.com/.

Watch this episode on YouTube!: https://youtu.be/BgkIu7vHREU

Make sure to join the Full Focus Planner Community! There's lots of Certified Pros to meet with, but there's also thousands of planner users who just love to offer tips and encourage each other. Check it out at https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes and a full transcript, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Build Your Plan: Weekly Preview Pt. 3 Feb 20, 2023

This is the last episode in our three-part look at the Weekly Preview. We previously talked about the Weekly Big 3 and the After Action Review. Our focus this time is on planning the upcoming week. This is the moment where you take all of the lessons learned from your After Action Review and combine those with the Weekly Big 3 tasks that you've already decided are essential. A properly planned week can be the difference between feeling great about what you've achieved and simply surviving to the weekend.

Courtney and Verbs talk you through three important elements that will help you get your week set up for success. Also, Courtney flips the tables on Nick and gives him a quiz about the history of goal setting.

Purchase Mind Your Mindset: The Science That Shows Success Starts with Your Thinking at www.mindyourmindsetbook.com.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Oi4hhnsw1Oc

Make sure to visit all of the other cool planner users over in the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more podcasts, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Better Together: Involve People to Boost Goal Achievement Feb 13, 2023

Because goals are something that we often set for ourselves, we forget that we don't have to achieve them alone. Reaching out to family, friends, colleagues, or mentors can provide you with valuable feedback and motivation that can push you through the messy middle and get to the finish line. But, in order to get that support, you have to be honest with others about the help you need.

Blake, Courtney, and Verbs offer three common confessions that you can share with your community to help you achieve your goals. Also, Courtney answers a question from the Full Focus Planner Community.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/O59l3tQABsc

To talk with other Full Focus Planner users (and find a FFP Certified Pros), then make sure to join the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Change Your Mindset & Accomplish Your Goals Feb 06, 2023

Megan Hyatt Miller, CEO of Full Focus, drops by to explain why your mindset is maybe the most important element of achieving your goals.

You can do everything right when it comes to writing a goal. It can follow every step of the SMARTER Goal framework and it can be recorded down on your Goal Detail page in your Full Focus Planner. However, if your mindset is not in the right place, then you're not going to get very far. Courtney talks with Megan about what this all means and how you can make sure your mind is set for success. Later, Courtney is joined by Full Focus Planner Certified Pro Tricia Sticca to talk about planner hacks.

For more information on Tricia, visit www.triciasticca.com.

Get Megan and Michael Hyatt's new book, Mind Your Mindset: The Science That Shows Success Starts with Your Thinking: https://mindyourmindsetbook.com/

Make sure to join the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook to find Tricia, other Certified Pros, and thousands of other ambitious goal achievers! https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

Need a rundown on SMARTER Goals? Check out this episode: https://focusonthispodcast.com/podcast/8-these-3-beliefs-are-holding-you-back/

For even more podcasts, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Avoid Repeating Mistakes: Weekly Preview Pt. 2 Jan 30, 2023

As we continue our exploration of the Weekly Preview, this week we turn our attention towards the After Action Review (AAR). Completing your AAR is a critical step in building momentum towards accomplishing your goals, but you have to make sure you think critically as you fill it out.

In this episode, Courtney and Verbs talk you through the four questions of the After Action Review and provide both the rationale and some helpful tips to help you get the most out of filling it out. Also, Courtney speaks with Dr. Nicole Coomber who is the Assistant Dean at the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business. (She's also a Full Focus Planner Certified Pro!) Dr. Coomber offers some data-driven insights into why the Full Focus Planner works so well and shares a new paradigm to help shape your Weekly and Daily Big 3.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Neag0qYDcfA

To talk with other Full Focus Planner users (and Certified Pros!), then make sure to join the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What Matters This Week?: Weekly Preview Pt. 1 Jan 23, 2023

The Weekly Preview is essential to the Full Focus System and it's one of our users' favorite tools. In order to really dig into who and why it works, we're starting a three-part miniseries all about the Weekly Preview.

First up: Setting your Weekly Big 3. While this actually happens at the end of your Weekly Preview, it is perhaps the most important step in the process. Courtney and Verbs share three considerations that you should use when setting your Weekly Big 3.

Also, Nick and Courtney talk about a potential daily task that can be a pain point for almost everybody: planning and making dinner every night.

To watch this episode on YouTube (and to see Verbs' lovely accent performance), visit: https://youtu.be/myTqE4SIytU

The Cassy Joy Garcia books referenced by Courtney:

Cook Once, Eat All Week: https://a.co/d/0ys89Qt

Cook Once Dinner Fix: https://a.co/d/0ys89Qt

Recipe/shopping apps referenced by Nick:

eMeals: https://emeals.com/

Paprika: https://www.paprikaapp.com/

To talk with other Full Focus Planner users (and Certified Pros!), then make sure to join the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Best Tip to Keep Goals Front and Center Jan 16, 2023

We’re well into January and might be starting to feel some friction on our goal journeys. After a couple of weeks of the new year, good intention and effort alone are no longer enough to see your goals through. Now is the perfect time to let your processes and strategies carry you forward so you can build some momentum.

Verbs and Courtney talk about a key strategy to help make progress on your goals: keeping them visible. After that, Courtney is joined by Erin Perry to talk about the Quarterly Preview.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why it is important to keep your goals visible
Creative ways to keep your goals front and center
Why the Quarterly Preview is essential

To watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/B05fSxoAl0k

To talk with other Full Focus Planner users (and other Certified Pros!), then make sure to join the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What Can I Do Today to Advance My Goal? Jan 09, 2023

So, you have your goals set and you've figured out what the next steps are to help you start moving towards those goals. What's next? Well, now is the time to start focusing on the foundational tool of the Full Focus Planner: The Daily Big 3. Even if you've used your planner for years, it's always good to refresh your memory and build upon your own experiences.

To help you with that, Blake and Nick explain the Daily Big 3, why it works, and best practices for setting them.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to set the best Daily Big 3 tasks
Why setting your Daily Big 3 is so effective at helping you achieve your goals

To watch this episode on YouTube, visit https://youtu.be/sFkwtLjSxpM

To talk with other Full Focus Planner users (and other Certified Pros!), then make sure to join the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Start with Simple: Building Goal Momentum Jan 02, 2023

Happy New Year! It's 2023 and it's time to make sure that you've set yourself up for success. Every year, in order to start off on the right foot, it's important to take a step back and plan your year with some very simple actions that will build up speed and propel you all the way until December 31 with a list of completed goals.

Courtney and Blake talk you through three questions that you can ask yourself to give yourself some quick wins at the start of the year. They also talk through how Blake can use these questions to start his stand-up comedy career. Also, Courtney speaks with Full Focus Certified Pro, Nicole Santamaria, about using the Full Focus System with kids and teachers.

In this episode, you will:

Learn how to ask yourself the questions that will get you moving towards your goals
See how to apply these questions in a real world situation
Hear how to introduce elements of the Full Focus System to kids

To find out more about Nicole, visit her website: https://Nicolesantamaria.com

Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/zsZJjrYuNa0

If you want to join a community of people who have brand new goals and are looking to achieve them, then it's time to join the Full Focus Community on Facebook! There's nothing to lose and a wonderful community to gain. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more podcast, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Slow Down to Speed Up: Goal-Setting During Crazy Seasons Dec 26, 2022

Sometimes the quickest way isn't the best way. While it would be very fast to simply write a list of goals on December 31st and then just hope that they work out, the research proves that it's not an effective way to reach your goals. The Full Focus System is built on the idea that you have to slow down at the beginning (and periodically throughout the year) so that you can achieve your goals both faster and with less stress.

Blake and Courtney share with you two allies that you can use to help you through this busy season. Also, Courtney speaks with Full Focus Certified Pro and author, Beth Stanley. She shares how the Full Focus Planner kept her grounded during a very difficult season in her life.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Use your calendar in a way to keep you on track
Ask others for support in your goal-achievement journey
Hear how the planner provides clarity for not only your future, but your past

If you would like to work with Beth Stanley, visit https://trainertainment.net/.

To view this episode on YouTube, visit https://youtu.be/OYaYU-oej2s

This is the perfect time to join the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook. Not only will you be able to see other planner users end of year wins, but you'll be able to share your own. It's the perfect way to put some of the lessons of this episode into practice. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more podcasts, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

3 Steps to Stop Holding Yourself Back Dec 19, 2022

So often the areas we want to set goals are areas we’ve tried to set goals before - and failed. We’ve become discouraged. We’ve lost hope. We don’t want to try again. Along the way, we’ve turned those "failures" into limiting beliefs. We say things like, "I simply can't reach that goal." But the truth is that it's the limiting beliefs themselves that can hold us back from achieving a goal or from even setting it in the first place!

Courtney, Verbs, and Blake provide you with three steps to help address your thinking and free you from those pesky limiting beliefs. Also, Courtney speaks with a listener about how to juggle his Daily Big 3 and the urgent demands placed on him at work.

In this episode, you will learn how to:

Identify and rewrite a limiting belief
Give grace to yourself for your past goal-setting attempts.
Balance the demands of your personal goals and the needs of your office

Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/peYDbPq0eTY

Make sure to join the Full Focus Community so you can interact with the most productive Facebook group on the internet: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank/

For more podcasts, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Give Me a Verb: The Grammar of Goal-Setting Dec 12, 2022

As a kid, did you ever wonder, "When will I need to know what a verb is?" Well, the answer to that question is: today. How you write your goals is a crucial element of your ability to achieve them. A poorly-worded goal can leave you feeling adrift and like you've failed. A correctly-worded goal not only helps you accomplish what you've set out to do, but you'll feel great about the person you've become in the process.

Blake, Courtney, and Verbs talk about the power of verbs (the part of speech - not the person). Also, Jim Kelly is back to do a speed round of some of his favorite productivity hacks.

In this episode, you will learn:

The difference between weak and strong verbs
How to make your goals actionable
Useful productivity hacks to help make accomplishing your goals a bit easer

Jim's list of resources:

Want to watch this episode? https://youtu.be/Bqlz5yorVm8

Make sure to visit our Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook! That's where all of the cool people go. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more podcasts, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Most Important Goal-Setting Question Dec 05, 2022

Sometimes goal-setting can feel overwhelming. It can certainly feel like there are too many choices that you have to make before you can accomplish your goals. However, of all of the open questions that you need to answer, there is one that is more important than the rest.

Blake, Verbs, and Courtney share that most important question, why it is so important, and share their experiences in answering it.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to use one question to shape your goal-setting journey
The importance of self-identity
How Blake, Courtney, and Verbs have answered this question

To take your free LifeScore™ Assessment, visit https://fullfocus.co/lifescore

To view this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/lvpWvnSUiIo

For more podcasts, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How to Stay Grounded This Holiday Season Nov 28, 2022

While the holiday season is wonderful, it can also disrupt all of the routines and rituals that you've spent all year developing. With more family, more events, more time with friends, more gifts, more meals - there's seemingly not enough time to devote to pursuing your quarterly and annual goals. When there's so much "more" happening in our lives, it's important to look for strategies of "less" to help be both peaceful and productive.

In this episode, Courtney, Verbs, and Blake share one strategy to help you stay grounded this holiday season. Also, Courtney speaks with Michael Hyatt's Executive Assistant (and all-around productive person), Jim Kelly, about some of his favorite hacks.

Here's the list of apps that Jim uses every morning as part of his morning ritual:

Othership (breathing): https://www.othership.us/app
Glorify (Christian worship): https://glorify-app.com/
Aura (meditation): https://www.aurahealth.io/
The Tapping Solution (EFT Tapping): https://www.thetappingsolution.com/blog/tapping-solution-app/
Day One (journaling): https://dayoneapp.com/

To view this episode on YouTube, visit https://youtu.be/AFmzPPlzXEg

To get help simplifying your rituals, visit www.fullfocusplanner.com/downloads and look for the Build Your Ritual Kit.

Lastly, make sure to visit the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook. It's what all of the cool kids are doing. (Seriously. There are a lot of very helpful planner users that are available to offer support and guidance.) https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Cultivate Gratitude Naturally & Combatting Workaholism Nov 21, 2022

The research tells us that gratitude makes us both happier and healthier. With that in mind, it's easy to say, "Okay. I'll just be more grateful then!" However, forced gratitude runs the risk of just being robotic. So, how do you create the feelings of gratitude without forcing it?

Verbs, Courtney, and Blake provide you with two tips to help you integrate gratitude into your weeks. Also, Courtney speaks with Full Focus Planner Certified Pro, Jeremy Clopton, about using the planner as a workaholic.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to set activation triggers to help practice gratitude
How the language we use is so important to our sense of gratitude
How to use your planning to combat workaholic tendencies

To learn more about Jeremy Clopton, find him on the Full Focus Planner Community or find him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremyclopton/

In need of a coach, find a Full Focus Planner Certified Coach, then visit https://fullfocus.co/directory/ and poke around. Looking for a specific name? Then make sure to search for "earners".

Lastly, you can also find Jeremy and other Pros in the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

To watch this episode on YouTube, visit https://youtu.be/J8BOrxoV1Hc

For more podcasts, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When Should I Set My Daily Big 3? Nov 14, 2022

The question, "When you set your Daily Big 3?" is perhaps the most debated and most personal choice that every planner user has to grapple with. Should you set your Daily Big 3 during your morning ritual, the workday startup, your workday shutdown, or even the (apparently) controversial evening ritual?

Courtney and Blake identify the four potential opportunities to set your Daily Big 3 and share the pros and cons for each one. Also, Nick asks Courtney to detail her morning ritual.

In this episode, you will learn:

The pros and cons to when you set your Daily Big 3
When our hosts set their Daily Big 3s
How Courtney structures her morning ritual

Need help setting or resetting one of your daily rituals? Visit www.fullfocus.co/build-rituals to download your own ritual kit.

Make sure to join our Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/J3-QTEBmbsg

For more podcasts, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Leveraging the Power of Attention Nov 07, 2022

"You're a mixture of the five people you're closest to." That's how the saying goes at least. We believe that the same thing is true for the things that we pay attention to. The movies we watch, the books we read, the hobbies we participate in all change both who we are and who we will become.

In today's episode, Courtney and Blake explore two tactics that will help you leverage the power of attention to accomplish your goals. Also, Nick has another segment of "Videos that the YouTube algorithm fed him". This time it's a video about home organization for people who struggle with it.

In this episode, you will learn:

How memorization can be your ally
How to make your important goals and ideas visible
Some quick organizational tips to provide some margin in your day

To get your monthly phone wallpapers, visit www.fullfocus.co/downloads.

To watch this episode on YouTube, visit https://youtu.be/18QaZj2mp1A.

Watch the home organization video that Nick talks about here: https://youtu.be/xRGXi1aTh1w

(Note: This video was not produced by Full Focus. It's very helpful, but has just a few moments that are a bit sassy or edgy.)

For more podcasts, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How to Spot Downhill Work in Disguise Oct 31, 2022

Everybody loves a good costume - even your tasks! There are things we do every day that might feel like productive work, but they're actually tasks that are simply filling your time and keeping you from accomplishing the goals you've set for yourself. The question is: How can you tell the difference between actual productive work and the downhill tasks that find a way to monopolize your time?

Also, Courtney answers a community member's question about how long to track habit goals.

In this episode, you will:

Learn two ways to identify downhill work
Understand how to replace downhill work with productive tasks
Hear about the complexities of habit stacking over multiple quarters

To view this episode on YouTube, visit https://youtu.be/hEuLvDBZ7bg

Make sure to join our Full Focus Planner Community. It's where all the cool kids hang out! https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more podcasts, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Reclaim Your Time by Setting Simple Tech Boundaries Oct 24, 2022

The good news is that most smartphones now have built-in apps that will tell you how long you've used your phone and what you're using it for. The bad news is that people tend to avoid looking at the numbers. The reality is that everyday you probably spend hours on your phone - those are hours that could be used to accomplish the big goals you've set for yourself!

Today, Courtney, Blake, and Nick talk about their own phone usage and they tackle three ways to set some simple boundaries around screen usage.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to check your smartphone usage
How individual apps can eat up a lot of time
Just how much Courtney, Nick, and Blake are using their phones
Why exploring the issue of screen time is important in the first place

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ss3bNedYA-4

Remember to visit the Full Focus Community for the latest tips to help keep you focused:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#162: The Overlooked Key to Growth and Vision Oct 17, 2022

Journaling is the type of activity that most people seem to recognize would benefit them, but they don't know where to start. When do they write? And, more important, what do you actually write while you're journaling?

In this episode, Courtney and Blake give you two questions that will jumpstart your journaling practice and get you going on the right track. Also, Nick gives Courtney a very important quiz.

You will learn:

What barriers people often feel when they start to journal
The importance of vision when it comes to journaling
The opportunities that journaling provides
That Courtney has a questionable British accent

To check out the Full Focus Journal, visit https://fullfocusstore.com/collections/journals/products/full-focus-journal-single

To watch this episode on YouTube, visit https://youtu.be/DWjxMoiLKIg

Check out The Accidental Diarist by Molly McCarthy: https://amzn.to/3T4vqES

Join the Full Focus Community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#161: 2 Tactics to Finally Install Your New Habit Oct 10, 2022

If developing a habit were easy, then everybody would just snap their fingers and enjoy their life with their new awesome habit. However, that's not how it works. Developing any habit takes time and repetition. The goal is that a habit requires no decision-making so it frees up your mind to focus on the tasks and projects that will help you reach your goals.

Verbs and Courtney give you two tips that can help you develop your new habits faster. Courtney also speaks with Dave Yankowiak, Technology Director at Full Focus. As a planner user for five years, Dave has some thoughts on how to get the most out of your Full Focus Planner.

In this episode, you will learn:

What activities you can turn into a habit
How to use activation triggers to engrain those habits
How to navigate both work and home tasks without stress

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/QakiYBDhUIQ

Join the Full Focus Planner Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#160: Improving Your Ideal Week & Managing ADHD Oct 03, 2022

One of the most common questions in the Full Focus Planner Community is "How can I use the planner to manage my ADHD?" In this episode, we're giving you some initial thoughts to help steer you in the right direction.

First, Verbs, Blake, and Courtney talk about three questions that you can ask yourself to help improve and streamline your Ideal Week. Then, Courtney talks with Full Focus Planner Certified Pro Cindy Wolford about how she uses the planner to manage her ADHD.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to prioritize the tasks that should make it to your Ideal Week
Ideas for activities to help you stay grounded
Insights into how to structure your day to maximize productivity
Why the planner works so well with ADHD

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Eswskn3X4EQ

Get your free Ideal Week template at www.fullfocusplanner.com/idealweek.

Learn more about Cindy's coaching and her experiences with the FFP and ADHD: https://cleaningup.co/blog/ffp-adhd/

Talk with Cindy and other members of the Full Focus Planner Community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank.

The Hexagon Pomodoro timer that Cindy uses can be found here:

https://www.amazon.com/Hexagon-Rotating-Minute-Preset-Countdown/dp/B07L2QN8MY

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#159: 2 Tips to Hack Your Quarterly Preview Sep 26, 2022

For many people, Q4 is the busiest time of the year. There are so many events and holidays that happen between October 1 and December 31 that it can be difficult to make sure that your goals are on track. This is why it's important to make the most out of your upcoming Quarterly Preview! This is the time to make sure that all of your ducks are in a row so that you can finish the year out strong.

Blake, Verbs, and Courtney offer you two hacks to help level-up your Quarterly Preview game. Also, Courtney welcomes back Adam Hill, Full Focus' "Product Development design and, uh, no. Product Design and Development and Supply Chain Director". They talk a little about the planner and Adam offers some of his favorite productivity tips.

View the episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/50OAtiirDzk

In this episode, you will learn:

How much time you should set aside for your Quarterly Preview
What you should know before and during your Quarterly Preview
What Adam does to get the ol' noggin working
How hard Nick is pushing for a Daily Big 3 stamp

Remember to visit www.fullfocusplanner.com/quarterlypreview for a fully-guided Quarterly Preview with Blake Stratton.

Adam talks about the craftsmanship in the new Full Focus Notes. Make sure to give them a look here: https://fullfocusstore.com/collections/accessories/products/full-focus-notes

Make sure to join our Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook so that you can hang out with just the coolest people on the planet (oh, and talk all things planner and productivity): https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For a complete transcription of this episode, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#158: The Power of a Checkmark Sep 19, 2022

A planner is a great way to stay organized and the Full Focus Planner is an excellent way to both stay organized and achieve the goals you've set for yourself. The planner is full of boxes and circles to to mark off your progress, but you don't get the full benefits of the planner unless you use them.

In this episode, Courtney and Marissa Hyatt talk about the power of actually checking off all of the boxes.

Also, in our new Certified Pro segment, we talk with Jake Brown about how he coaches creative professionals to use their planners. He's got some great insights that you can put into practice right away.

In this episode, you will learn:

Where all of the boxes are that you can check off in your planner
The importance of checking items off as you complete them
Why tracking is important when it comes to celebrating
How to best start your planner (according to Jake)
What happened on Courtney's traffic stop

Watch this episode at https://youtu.be/xGQBsCztjSQ

Download the StreakTracker at https://fullfocus.co/streaktracker/

To learn more about Jake, visit https://airballoonadvisory.com/

To learn more about our other Full Focus Certified Pros, visit https://fullfocus.co/certified/directory/

Join the Full Focus Planner community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#157: Your Planner and Your Project Management System Sep 12, 2022

One of the most common questions we hear is: "How do I integrate the planner with my project management system?". We all know the value of using the Full Focus Planner to not just stay organized, but to help us conceive and achieve our goals. What happens when you want to take the insights from the planner and use it with Asana, Trello, ClickUp, or whatever project management system you use?

Well, you're in luck because today Courtney is joined by the Corporate Project Manager at Full Focus, Annie Mayberry. She'll talk you through three specific bridges that you can use to connect your planner to your project management system.

Later in the episode, we're joined by Andrea Liebross. She's a Full Focus Certified Pro who stops by to share how her coaching career and life have been impacted by the Full Focus Planner. She also shares some of her favorite planner tips! If you want to know more about working with Andrea, you can visit her website: https://andrealiebross.com/work-with-me/.

In this episode, you will learn:

Which areas in the planner lend themselves to direct integration with a project management system
How to integrate your Big 3 into a project management system
How the daily pages are like a container

To watch this episode on YouTube, visit https://youtu.be/VpskpE5g9Nc.

To see Annie's Asana/Daily Big 3 integration, make sure to visit the Full Focus Planner community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank/.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#156: Your Boss Derailed Your Plans. Now What? Sep 05, 2022

Have you ever had a plan for your week only to have a conversation with your boss that changes everything? In the blink of an eye, it seems like all of your plans have been ruined and you'll spend days trying to catch up. The truth is that you have more control over these situations than you might think.

Blake, Courtney, and Verbs give you four steps that you can follow the moment your boss tells you they need something ASAP.

In this episode, you will learn:

The value of taking a moment before responding to your boss' request
The questions that you can ask yourself to prioritize your tasks.
How to manage your expectations once your plans have to change
How Nick's cat is sorta like his boss (especially on the day of this recording)

To watch today's episode, visit https://youtu.be/FL-MiiMGq68.

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#155: 3 Rhythms to Help You Reset This Fall Aug 29, 2022

With summer vacations wrapping up, school starting again, and various pumpkin-flavored drinks being consumed, that can mean only one thing: fall is upon us. A change in seasons means a change in your routines. Luckily, the Full Focus system gives you the chance to rethink the rhythms and rituals that help you be successful.

Blake, Verbs, and Courtney provide you with three rhythms that you can use to transition into fall without missing a beat.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Why the shorter days can cause problems with your schedule
How to build rituals that work for you
Why defining your wins is so important
How well Blake sings hoedowns

Go watch Blake's hoedowns here: https://youtu.be/_y9z4znseHI

Join the Full Focus Planer Community!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#154: 4 Activities You Should Try Batching Aug 22, 2022

We've all been there. The day is ending and you're just feeling the whiplash of a day that required a seemingly endless list of decisions and tasks. While it can feel like you have no control over how your day plays out, the truth is that there are some tasks that you will do repeatedly. Those tasks are perfect candidates to be batched. Batching means less time transitioning between tasks and more time getting them done quickly. It's a win-win situation!

In this Courtney-approved episode, Courtney and Verbs share four activities that you should try batching. They'll give you specific ideas to help at work and home - as well as some other helpful tips to keep you from feeling beat up at the end of your day.

In this episode, you'll learn:

How your chronotype can help you decide when and how to batch activities
How to recognize when the work you're doing is "creative" and how to prepare for it
Which activities are the easiest to batch
What happened to Nick's first pair of glasses

Resources

-The FREE Amy Porterfield presentation about MegaBatching can be found at www.focusonthispodcast.com/megabatching
The book Verbs references is called "Rest: Why You Get More Done When You Work Less" by Alex -Soojung-Kim Pang.
The "Dishwasher Episode" is #149: Complete Your Daily Big 3 with Two Simple Questions: https://focusonthispodcast.com/podcast/149-complete-your-daily-big-3-with-two-simple-questions/

To watch this episode (and to see Verbs' and Nick's rooms), go to https://youtu.be/H9BkVRI6azk.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#153: 4 Tools to Defeat Distractions and Interruptions Aug 15, 2022

It seems like the moment you try to do important work is always precisely aligned with the moment that the whole world suddenly needs your attention. Your boss might need you. Your kids might need you. Your own thoughts interrupt you and pull your attention away from the important work at hand. The good news is that it doesn't have to be like this.

In today's episode, Courtney and Verbs give you the tools you need to defeat distractions and interruptions. If you implement just a couple of these tools, you're going to find that you're getting a lot more work done.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to prepare others that you're busy
A few ways to use technology in your favor (and how to fight off the distractions)
How to simply get down to business when the time has arrived

To watch this episode on YouTube, visit: https://youtu.be/KZYPCg1qqAE.

For more focus goodness, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#152: Coach Yourself to Goal Success with Two Questions Aug 08, 2022

Blake stops by to talk with Verbs and Courtney about how two simple questions can help you reach your goals.

Coaching is so valuable because it allows you to get an outside perspective on what's happening in your life. While having a coach is always a good idea, what if you could coach yourself? What if you could set aside the emotions that keep us from accomplishing our goals? The questions that Courtney, Verbs, and Blake discuss this week are simple (and they're only a start), but if you commit just a little time to thinking deeply about them, then you'll get back on track to success.

Also, the crew tackles a question from the community about how to develop a new musical skill.

To watch this episode online, visit https://youtu.be/M70cLKoE0zY.

In this episode, you will:

Learn how the Weekly Preview fits into your new self-coaching mindset
Explore the role that emotions play in keeping us from properly reflecting
Learn how to harness experience for future success
Hear about why pink cups are superior to any other colored cup (according to some)

Check out the Vision Cast Desk Tool here: https://fullfocusstore.com/products/vision-caster-desk-tool/

Join the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

For more Focus on This including transcripts, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Level-Up Your Workday Shutdown Ritual Aug 01, 2022

As high achievers, it can be difficult to stop the work you're doing and start a workday shutdown. In the short run, pushing through and finishing the work can feel like it makes a lot of sense because you finish more things on your to-do list. However, in the long run, not shutting down your workday can start to grind your productivity to a halt.

Today, Courtney and Verbs describe two different elements that will help you end your workday on the right foot. They also answer a question from the Full Focus Planner Community about the Quarterly Preview being too business-sounding.

In this episode, you will learn:

Concrete ways that you can end your workday and reset for the start of the next day
How to manage the loose ends that will undoubtedly come up through your day
The benefits of simply utilizing your workday shutdown ritual
New ways to think about your Quarterly Preview

To watch this episode, go to https://youtu.be/86zIX3CgPmM.

For more episodes, make sure to visit www.focusonthispodcast.com.

To talk to other productivity and success-minded people, visit the Full Focus Planner Community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#150: The #1 Way To Improve Your SMARTER Goal Jul 25, 2022

A goal that is poorly structured can not only keep you from achieving your goal, but it can also stop you from getting out of the starting gates. Today, Verbs and Courtney talk you through the first "R" in the SMARTER Goals Framework: Risky. How can we leverage risk to maximize our results?

Also, Courtney battles with a fly. If you want to see all of it, make sure you watch the video: https://youtu.be/qsV_mwPP5zA

In this episode, you will learn:

What healthy risk feels like
How to understand risk-taking by exploring how children take risks
How to reformulate a goal to make it more risky

Make sure to visit our Full Focus Planner Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#149: Complete Your Daily Big 3 with Two Simple Questions Jul 18, 2022

What are the biggest obstacles that people face when struggling to complete their Daily Big 3? Since the Daily Big Three is a core component of the Full Focus System, understanding the answers to that question can help you break through the stress of those blank Daily Big 3 sections in your planner.

In this episode, Courtney and Verbs discuss two powerful questions that can help get you back on track with your Daily Big 3 practice.

Also, Nick talks about how you're probably using your dishwasher wrong and how using it correctly can save you a lot of time for more important things.

In this episode, you will learn:

About the importance of mindset when it comes to breaking through limiting beliefs
How we gain clarity from filling out our Daily Big 3
How our Daily Big 3 help us achieve our goals
More about dishwashers than you ever thought possible.

The dishwasher video from Technology Connections that Nick references: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_rBO8neWw04

Also, here's a follow-up video where the host talks a bit more about how much detergent you should be using:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ll6-eGDpimU

Make sure to let us know your thoughts about dishwashers or anything else in the Full Focus Planner Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#24: How to Set Up Your Monthly Calendar Jul 11, 2022

As a high achiever, you’re dialed in on productivity. You know how to get things done. But there’s a problem. No matter how much you produce, you always feel behind. There always seems to be a looming deadline that somehow got missed. That puts you on the hamster wheel nearly every week, hustling to get caught up. It’s exhausting.

There’s a fix for that. It’s called a Monthly Calendar. Start using this tool to keep track of your Big Rocks, and you’ll escape that feeling of being two steps behind. You’ll have plenty of time for your major commitments and deadlines. Better yet, you’ll have lots more time for the “little rocks” too.

In this episode you will—

Learn why a weekly calendar view will not help you track deadlines.
Find a simple way to keep your big commitments visible at all times.
Discover how to gain complete confidence in accepting or declining appointments.
Find the space to fit in other important priorities around big commitments like travel or project deadlines.
Relax, knowing all your major commitments are under control!

For more podcasts, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com.

Make sure to visit the Full Focus Planner Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#148: Rethink Your Evening Ritual to Power Your Days Jul 04, 2022

After a busy and fulfilling day of productivity, it can be really hard to turn off the mind (and the screens!) and start your evening ritual. This is true for a lot of people - in fact, the evening ritual might be the hardest one to consistently complete. It makes a lot of sense that people would struggle with it: not only are you tired, but it's the only part of the day where there isn't a meeting coming up in 30 minutes or an errand to run in an hour.

Today, Courtney and Verbs talk about the most overlooked ritual - the evening ritual. They will also highlight why it's so important that you end your days on the right foot and provide some ideas on how to stay consistent with your "night night" routine.

In this episode, you will learn:

What is absolutely essential in an evening ritual
What are some examples of an ideal evening ritual
Why it's important to know your chronotype
Why an evening ritual reinforces our natural circadian rhythms

Resources:

The Full Focus Planner Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

Learning How to Learn by Dr. Barbara Oakley, Dr. Terrence Sejnowski, and Alistair McConville: https://barbaraoakley.com/books/learning-how-to-learn/

The Power of When by Dr. Michael Breus: https://thepowerofwhen.com/

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#147: Steal These Relational Goals This Summer! Jun 27, 2022

When we think of setting goals, we often think of the things we want to accomplish at work. But, if we truly want to both win at work and succeed at life, then we need to spend time working on our relationships. To help us do that, we need to set intentional relationship goals to make sure that we create space for the people that are most important to us.

In this episode, Courtney and Verbs give you two customizable relational goals for this summer that are both fun and give you more time with the people you love.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why it is important to set relational goals
How to structure your relational goals so they fit the SMARTER goal framework
What relational goals Courtney, Verbs, and Producer Nick have set

For more, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#146: 5-Minute Exercises to Launch Your Q3 Goal Success Jun 20, 2022

Blake is back to talk with Courtney about how we can start the third quarter on the best foot. They offer two very simple exercises that you can do right now that will give you the clarity you need to succeed in Q3.

In this episode, you'll learn:

How simply writing down your goals increases the likelihood of success
Where you can put your goals to keep them top of mind
Which moment is the most critical when you switch to a new planner

Also, Blake gives an update on where he's been and what's coming up next for him.

To download a simple Full Focus goal chart, visit www.fullfocus.co/downloads

To watch this whole episode on YouTube, click here: https://youtu.be/ERzybOrxB7I

For more episodes, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#145: How to Leverage Time and Accomplish Your Goals Jun 13, 2022

Timing is everything. We often talk about the importance of knowing your "why", but when it comes to accomplishing your goals, it's also important to understand the power of "when". When are you going to make the space to accomplish your goals? If you choose poorly, you could find yourself struggling to succeed at goals that are both important to you and attainable.

In this episode, Courtney and Verbs talk about two important ways that you can use time to your advantage. They also answer a Full Focus Planner Community question about what to do when you fall off the goal achievement wagon for a month.

You'll learn-

How to create urgency in your goalsetting
How to leverage time differently for habit and achievement goals
How to use a time trigger to create space and consistency in your life

You can watch this entire episode (and see the first steps of "The Focus" dance) here: https://youtu.be/xKEwBVm0dws

Make sure to visit the Full Focus Planner Community and leave your deadline on the post there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#144: How to Navigate Transitions Jun 06, 2022

Life is full of transitions. They can be relatively common transitions - like sitting down at your desk and getting to work - or something more significant like entering retirement. The best way to navigate these transitions is to use the systems you already have in place to help you reorient. In today's episode, Courtney and Verbs talk you through two anchors that you'll need to successfully surf that transition wave.

In this episode, you'll learn-

How to avoid going into "reaction mode"
How to use your Daily Big 3 to stay on track
Why planning out your transitions is vital
The importance of updating your rituals as your life changes

Also, the FoT Crew answers a Full Focus Planner Community question about whether or not they use their planners to schedule when they'll watch movies and TV shows.

You can watch this video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/3cysWjK3kFc

Remember to visit the Full Focus Planner Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#143: It Starts with Me: Agency and Goal Achievement May 30, 2022

Goal achievement always starts at the same place - with you. No matter how intuitive or inventive a system might be, all goal achievement is built on the concept of agency. With that in mind, the best way to achieve our goals would be to leverage our personal agency so that we can use the things we can control to influence the things that we don't control.

Today, Courtney and Verbs define agency and provide two helpful strategies to leverage your agency to achieve your goals. They also answer a question from the Full Focus Planner Community about how to reward a habit goal when it seems like you're going to fall just a little short.

In today's episode, you will learn:

How identifying what you do not have control of is critical to success
How a full schedule can actually provide clarity for what's most important to you
Why rituals are a key ingredient to goal achievement
Why having both Daily Big 3s and Weekly Big 3s are so important

Make sure to visit out Full Focus Community at https://www.facebook.com/groups/ffpthinktank.

Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/X0YIALWoC_M.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#142: The Next Right Thing: The Path to Success May 23, 2022

As you look ahead towards accomplishing your goals, one important question is: How far can I get this week? How much can I accomplish this week as I work towards the goals I've set for myself?

In today's episode, Courtney and Verbs explain why the Weekly Big 3 is one of the most important elements of the Full Focus Planner system. They'll also answer a community member's question about setting a goal to find a new job.

Make sure to join our Full Focus Planner Community for more tips and positivity!

For more podcasts, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#141: Leveraging the Power of Less: Your Daily Big 3 May 16, 2022

We often think about productivity as just being hyper-focused, full of energy, and simply checking the highest possible amount of tasks off of our to-do list. The problem with that is that the level of energy required to execute that plan is simply unsustainable. It leads to burnout and, perhaps, you're even worse off than you were before you started.

Courtney and Verbs talk about the power of focusing on the key tasks that will keep pushing you forward every single day. It's not rocket science, but its power cannot be overstated. Of course, we're talking about the Daily Big 3.

We're also introducing a new "Show & Tell" segment where we share some of our favorite productivity tips, tricks, and gear directly with you! To watch this episode, visit https://youtu.be/3wPSt88UkyA.

In this episode, you will learn:

Why it's important to prioritize just a few tasks every day
How setting a Daily Big 3 helps provide clarity, calm, and progress towards your goals
What it looks like when you're overcapacity
That you've been playing UNO wrong your entire life

Items from Show & Tell:

For more podcasts, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#140: Let's Brainstorm: How do I reward myself? May 09, 2022

Setting a goal and then achieving it often feels like a reward in and of itself. But, it's important that you take the time to celebrate your accomplishments. Today, Courtney and Verbs help Producer Nick fill out the "Your Reward" section of his Full Focus Planner. Along the way, you'll learn about the five principles to setting exciting and motivating rewards.

In this episode, you will learn:

How to leverage members of your family and community to help celebrate your wins
Why it's important to establish a reward in the first place
How a goal reward can be a great opportunity for generosity
What a "Small Rewards Bank" is
A fun fact about narwhals

Watch this episode on the Full Focus YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/69tA6UVQ_Rc

For more, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#139: 4 Reasons You Must Record Your Wins May 02, 2022

When you're constantly focusing on what's next, it can be hard to slow down and focused on the progress you've already made. In this episode, Courtney and Verbs talk about why it's absolutely important that you take the time to record down all of the wins along your journey.

In this episode, you will learn -

Why living to simply jump over the next obstacle is risky
How recording your wins connects to your self-esteem
How chronicling your wins helps alleviate complaining
Where Verbs' fear of animatronics comes from

Resources:

Full Focus Planner Community
Watch this episode on the Full Focus YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/JaeGH1wGT9A

For more, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com.

To order your Full Focus Planner, visit https://fullfocus.co/planner/.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#138: Creating Effective Habits with Amy Porterfield Apr 25, 2022

In a world that feels so chaotic, it might surprise you that something as simple as a habit can provide you with both clarity and peace in your life. Today, Courtney and Verbs speak with Amy Porterfield about the importance of habits and how to install them into your daily routines.

In this episode, you will learn:

How people get stuck when developing habits
How you can identify the habits that fit into your life
The power that habits have had on Amy’s life
Which of our hosts drink a gallon of water a day (spoiler: it’s none of them)
Amy’s trick for making sure she sticks with her habits

Resources:

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#137: 3 Reasons To Seek a Balanced Life Apr 18, 2022

Most people feel like they have to choose between one area of life at the expense of another. But for life to be whole and feel full, there needs to be balance.

In today's episode, Verbs, Courtney, and Blake give you three reasons why balancing your life is actually the best way to achieve your goals.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

What a "balanced life" even means
Why "work harder, work longer" isn't the solution
How to tell when there's an imbalance in your life
How all 10 of your life domains are connected

Resources:

Free LifeScore Assessment

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#136: Get Off the Struggle Bus: 3 Tips for Gaining Ground on Your Goals Apr 11, 2022

Do you feel like you’re on the struggle bus with your goals? Maybe you find yourself always working on something else that seems more urgent. You might begin to wonder if you should have made those goals at all, or if you’re even cut out for goal achievement.

In today’s episode, Courtney, Verbs, and Blake discuss a mindset shift that will change the way you approach your work. Follow these three guidelines as you set your Weekly Big 3, so you can make some forward momentum and reenergize your goal progress.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How to tell if you’re thinking of goals as additive versus essential
The importance of sharpening your ax
Why simple steps are more effective than planning all the steps
How to filter the urgent to focus on the important
What to say when your boss hijacks your day with an urgent task

Resources:

Full Focus Planner Community

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#135: 3 Beliefs That Keep You Stuck Apr 04, 2022

You don’t want to feel stuck. But in your relationships, in your finances, or in your career, you find yourself in the same rut over and over again. You want to break free, but you just don’t know how.

Many of our emotions and actions aren’t caused by our situations but by our thinking. With help from Courtney, Verbs, and Blake, you can identify the beliefs holding you back, trace how they’re impacting your behavior, and reexamine your thinking.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

The best clue you might have a limiting belief
The power of past experiences to shape our expectations
Why you need to start acting like your future self wants to be
How beliefs spark self-fulfilling prophecies
Examples of limiting beliefs you may be bought into

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#134: Power-Up and Refresh Your Goals Mar 28, 2022

When our goals no longer feel exciting, the pursuit can feel cumbersome. It feels like everything is a drag, like there’s something wrong with your goals or the way you set them. Should you just let your goals crumble and aim for different goals next time?

In this episode, Verbs and Black walk through four key actions you can take to refresh your goals. Follow them closely to get back on track and make your goals exciting again.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

One of the best actions you can take in between quarters
The question to ask yourself to move forward on your goals
How to reassess the relevance of your goals
Why changing goals can be necessary—and even good

Resources:

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#133: "But Why?” Refresh Your Goal Motivation Mar 21, 2022

You’re coming to the end of the first quarter and are feeling totally unmotivated by your goals. It feels like such an effort to take one more step forward, and you wonder why you even set those goals in the first place. What can you do to stay on track and maintain momentum when you have no gas left in the tank?

In this episode, Verbs and Blake discuss the three forces behind every goal and how reflecting on them regularly keeps you going—or helps you decide if something needs to change.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How to revisit your driving whys
Why “should goals” tend not to be effective goals
The importance of writing down your rewards
The potential costs of not hitting your goals

Resources:

Full Focus Planner Community

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#132: 4 Questions to Reflect on Q1 Mar 14, 2022

Moving from one quarter to the next is often seamless. So much so, that we rarely give intentional thought to how things went. But that’s exactly why we can experience repetitive frustration and feel driftless. Call it quarterly déjà vu.

In this episode, Verbs, Courtney, and Nick walk through four questions to reflect on for a better and more successful upcoming quarter.

To see this full episode, go to https://youtu.be/omieOMcejeg.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

An underlying importance of the Weekly Preview
The purpose behind asking, What didn’t work?
How a quarter can feel different without intentional reflection
The necessity of naming the required change
The power of decision in who you become

Resources:

Full Focus Planner Community

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#131: Start Journaling Now! Mar 07, 2022

We want to live and work by design. We don’t want to drift to destinations. But we can’t design the path for our lives until we know what’s happening and where we currently are.

(Watch this episode in its entirety on YouTube: https://youtu.be/pJjHbCRl41o)

In this episode, Verbs, Courtney, and Blake offer four ways journaling helps us learn from our lives, so we can then live more fully into them. You no longer have to feel like you’re coasting from one thing to the next, with life just passing you by. In as little as five minutes a day, you can gain further clarity in your thinking, record lessons learned, and take back ownership of your days.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How journaling helps us understand what’s going on around us
The helpfulness of slowed reflection
The benefits of writing out your thoughts
Why distilling lessons learned is crucial

Resources:

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#130: Email Inbox Therapy Feb 28, 2022

Email is part of our everyday—in work and in life. From one-on-one messages to calendar invitations to marketing emails from somewhere you purchased a couch from. It’s one of the most powerful communication tools at our fingertips. But that power can also weigh us down, keep us stuck, and prevent us from moving onto our most important work. Is this the new normal we should accept?

In this episode, Verbs, Courtney, and Nick outline three actions you can take to maintain the chaos of your email inbox, so you can spend time on work that really matters.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How to reframe expectations around communication
The email process Courtney and Verbs follow
The effects of a compromised Workday Shutdown Ritual
Tools to automate your inbox flow

Resources:

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#129: Using the Planner as an Entrepreneur Feb 21, 2022

Getting the vision, alignment, and execution you need to drive extraordinary results isn’t always easy. And it can be especially tough when you’re doing it alone. So much around you feels chaotic. How can you bring order and structure to the mess?

In this episode, Verbs, Courtney, and Blake speak with Stacie Simpson, a seasoned Full Focus Planner and new Full Focus Planner Certified Pro, about what life was like for her before she started using the Planner—and how things became different after she did. Plus, Stacie shares her personal tips for getting started, building good habits, and more.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Courtney’s mishap at Disney World
What drove Blake to be a Full Focus Planner user himself
Stacie’s discovery of the power of “no”
How and where to start using the Full Focus Planner

Resources:

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A VERY Special Announcement! Feb 15, 2022

Courtney is joined by Michael Hyatt to tease a special announcement.

To hear the Lead to Win episode with Michael and Megan, search for "Lead to Win" on your favorite podcast app or visit here: https://bit.ly/3GNOlwv.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#128: Breaking Free Of Procrastination Feb 14, 2022

It can be hard to tell exactly why we procrastinate. Many times there’s a need that isn’t being met or a feeling that’s getting in the way. If we don’t know what that is and how to solve it, procrastination will persist. Procrastination might be a familiar obstacle to our work, but it doesn’t have to keep us stopped in our tracks.

In this episode, Verbs, Courtney, and Blake talk through four strategies you can use to break free from procrastination and keep moving forward.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

What Courtney turns to when she gives into procrastination
How focusing on less makes your to-do list feel more achievable
A simple solution for greater clarity
How to anticipate distractions and also embrace them

Resources:

Full Focus Planner Community

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#127: 4 Categories of Powerful Professional Goals Feb 07, 2022

You’ve set personal goals before, things related to hobbies, fitness, or finances. But taking the same steps in your professional life is a real challenge. So many things are out of your control, and there are obstacles at every turn. Is this the way work will always be, or can you take control of your professional life and set yourself up to win?

In this episode, Verbs and Blake discuss four categories to consider when setting professional goals. Even when goals are handed to you by someone else, you can still own them and position yourself for the working life and career you want.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How to pursue work you’d like to explore with business needs in mind
Verbs’s tactics to be distraction-free and maintain focus
The benefits of investing in your own development
Plus, a surprise guest!

Resources:

Full Focus Planner Community

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#126 : The Power of Constraints: Do Less, Achieve More Jan 31, 2022

You’ve bought into a cultural fallacy: if you do more and work tirelessly, you’ll achieve more and get the results you want. The problem is, it’s not working. Burnout is high, quality drops, and it’s not sustainable. How can you keep cranking out results without constantly running on fumes?

In this episode, Verbs and Blake walk you through three constraints you can leverage to maximize your output for incredible results. You can say goodbye to doing more and more but receiving less and less when you leverage the power of constraints.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How setting fewer goals sets you up for success
Why a shorter to-do list makes you more productive and feeling satisfied
Verbs’s approach to the Daily Big 3
The danger of not having a hard start and stop to your day

Resources:

Full Focus Planner Community

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#125: Mastermind It: 4 Ways to Win with Friends Jan 24, 2022

Surprisingly, trying to be productive and achieve goals can feel like a lonely endeavor at times. If no one around you is pursuing the same thing, it might seem like no one really gets you or what you’re trying to accomplish. It could even leave you feeling unsupported. As a result, the temptation to give up gets greater and greater.

Verbs, Courtney, and Blake are no strangers to this feeling. But they also know a thing or two about how to win with friends. In this episode, they’ll walk through four activities you can engage in with a partner to ensure your focus is locked in and results are high.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

The advantages of completing a Weekly Preview alongside someone
How to spot blind spots in your Ideal Week
Why accountability is good for goal achievement
Blake’s accountability character
Practical steps to get heads-down with a partner

Resources:

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#124: 4 Tactics for Building Goal Momentum Jan 17, 2022

It’s a new year and you’ve set some goals. Things were going well at first, but then life happened. You find yourself feeling sluggish or unmotivated. It’s starting to feel like history repeating itself and goals getting dropped. How do you prevent this from happening and keep yourself moving forward?

In this episode, Courtney, Verbs, and Blake walk through four tactics you can use to maintain momentum on your goals. These practical tips will help you move closer to your goals daily, and ensure you don’t stall out.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

A daily cadence to keep your goals visible.
The importance of connecting with your key motivations.
The power of breaking your goals down into smaller steps.
Why risk works in your favor.
A key way to tell whether you’re stepping enough outside your comfort zone.

Resources:

Full Focus Planner Community

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#123: Hacking the Daily Big 3: Four Tips to Help You Win Jan 10, 2022

Listing your Daily Big 3 seems so simple. But somehow, it isn’t. You forget. You write them down but don’t follow through. The day doesn’t go according to plan. Having a short to-do list uncompleted leaves you feeling discouraged. How should you move forward?

In this episode, Courtney and Blake tackle four tips for setting yourself up for success. These simple, easily executed tips will equip you to achieve your Daily Big 3 more consistently than ever before—transforming your productivity in the process.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

The power of identifying an Activation Trigger
Why the way you write your Daily Big 3 matters
The built-in reward you can leverage to achieve your Daily Big 3
What makes slowing down so important to moving forward
The good news about Verbs’ return

Resources:

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#122: Kickstarting Your New Planner Jan 03, 2022

It’s a new quarter, and it’s finally time to transition to a new Full Focus Planner. But you find yourself putting it off. The transition seems overwhelming, and you don’t want to “mess up” your pristine new planner. How do you start getting down to business?

In this episode, Courtney and Blake walk through three steps for kickstarting your new planner. They’ll offer practical tips for shifting your mindset and capturing key information to set yourself up to succeed.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

The first step to committing to the future
How to avoid being blindsided by stuff you forgot
Where to look for ideas on how to adapt the planner
Why curating your environment matters for your productivity
A motivational second segment with Verbs

Resources:

Full Focus Planner Community

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#121: The First 90 Days: 2 Goals For New Planner Users Dec 27, 2021

You’ve unboxed your first Full Focus Planner. But now, you’re starting to feel a bit overwhelmed. So many tools and terms—where should you start? You want to jump right in, but you don’t want to bite off more than you can chew. What should you do?

In this episode, Blake and Courtney walk through two goals every new planner user should set. Grab your planner—because by the end of this episode, you could have two Goal Detail pages completely filled out. It just might be the kickstart you need to make great gains on your goal achievement journey.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Two perspectives on when to set your Daily Big 3
The most transformational tool of the Full Focus Planner
How to learn from the school of life
An answer to the FAQ: “How long does it take to form a habit?”
Tips for next steps on getting started with the Weekly Preview

Resources:

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#120: The 5 Gifts of Goal-Setting Dec 20, 2021

The holidays are here—which means it’s the season of giving and goal setting.

In this short and sweet holiday edition of Focus On This, Verbs, Courtney, and Blake unpack the five gifts of goal setting. These gifts can transform 2022—and the years to come.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Why clarity drives success
The best Freudian slip in Focus On This history
One strategy for developing greater motivation
How goal-setting leads to new experiences
The ultimate reward for achieving a goal

Resources

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Your 2022 Jump Start: Set Yourself Up for Success in the New Year - Part 3 Dec 17, 2021

The benefits of achieving goals aren't limited to the results we accomplish. Pursuing hard things shapes who we become. The confidence we build better equips us for the road ahead. We risk more and remain steadfast in the face of discomfort. When we do, we encounter breakthrough.

To experience the power of using goals as stepping stones to the future you want to create, join us for Your Best Year Ever. Learn more at yourbestyearever.me/act.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Your 2022 Jump Start: Set Yourself Up for Success in the New Year - Part 2 Dec 15, 2021

You can't always believe what you think. Too often, the stories we tell ourselves hold us back. These "limiting beliefs" go undetected because they seem like reality—and as these stories shape our behavior, they become self-fulfilling prophecies.

Goal setting invites us to root out limiting beliefs and replace them with better stories. By setting goals, we defiantly declare that our past doesn't define our future. The possibilities are greater than we dared hope.

To delve deeper, join us for the free, upcoming webinar, Become Your Best in 2022: 7 Steps to the Life You Want. Register to attend at bestyearever.me/webinar. And be sure to join us back here on Friday for the last installment of this discussion!

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Your 2022 Jump Start: Set Yourself Up for Success in the New Year - Part 1 Dec 14, 2021

Before we can look toward the new year, we have to confront the losses that lie behind us. We start by lamenting. As we do, our grief brings with it unexpected gifts—self-compassion, lessons learned, clarity about our priorities, and a deeper resilience. These gifts help lay the groundwork for imagining and moving toward a future filled with hope.

To continue on the journey, join us for the free, upcoming webinar, Become Your Best in 2022: 7 Steps to the Life You Want. Register to attend at bestyearever.me/webinar. And be sure to join us back here tomorrow for the second segment of this discussion!

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#119: Fireside Chat: Establishing Your Planner Habit Dec 13, 2021

You’re just getting started using the Full Focus Planner. You feel a little overwhelmed. You’re comparing yourself to others and feel unsure how to integrate the system into your life in a truly impactful way. Are there people ahead of you on the journey who can help?

In this episode, Courtney, Verbs, and Blake talk with Full Focus advocate and planner user Julie. She gives insight from her own journey with the planner and offers takeaways about how to make the most of the Full Focus System.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

The transforming power of starting small
How to change the way you think about work
Why incremental plans lead to exponential results
How understanding the goal structure leads to greater goal achievement

Resources:

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Limited Access: Be a Fly on the Wall for Michael’s Latest Training Dec 09, 2021

Today, we share a segment from Michael's latest live training, Become Your Best In 2022: Seven Steps to the Life You Want. In this course, Michael covers what it takes to accomplish remarkable goals, how to persevere when things get tough, and how to win in the new year.

If you want to hear the full training, there are still slots available. Go to leadto.win/best to reserve your seat.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#118: Overcoming the Thinking That Holds You Back Dec 06, 2021

Goal-setting season is just around the quarter. But already, you find yourself tempted to play it safe. You’re dismissing ideas as improbable. You feel reluctant to take risks. Your self-talk leaves something to be desired. In short, your thinking needs a refresh.

Verbs, Courtney, and Blake are no strangers to what we call “limiting beliefs.” In this episode, they get honest and practical about the steps you can take to confront your beliefs and improve your thinking. You’ll walk away equipped for the self-reflection that’s essential as you prepare for a new year of goal achievement.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

The two mindsets that govern your beliefs
Three kinds of limiting beliefs you probably hold
Why limiting beliefs are so hard to identify
The story of Verbs’ past vocation as a rapper
A real-time rewrite of a limiting belief

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#117: 3 Anchors to Hold Steady in the Holiday Chaos Nov 29, 2021

The holidays are here. Family is in town. You have more parties than normal. You have events at your kids’ school. At the same time, it’s Q4 and you have year-end deadlines you’re racing to meet. All of a sudden, life is more crazy than usual. How do you keep from dropping the ball or burning out?

In this episode, Courtney, Verbs, and Blake walk you through three anchors you can cling to this next month to avoid entering January thinking, Wow, what just happened? You don’t have to get swept away this holiday season. You can stay grounded and come out on top when you get back to basics.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How to resist the temptation to overcommit
Why defining the win for each day keeps you anchored
The power of keeping—but adapting—your rituals in busy seasons
Tips directly from a planner user on making the planner your own

Resources:

Full Focus Planner Community

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bonusode: Join the Inaugural Class of Full Focus Planner Certified Pros Nov 23, 2021

You’ve incorporated the Full Focus Planner into your day-to-day life and have transformed your productivity. But you want to go even deeper. You want to maximize the Planner to the fullest and become a power user. You want to be able to display your expertise to customers, colleagues, and potential employers—and maybe even discover new revenue opportunities. Is there a path to all this and more?

In this bonus episode, Courtney talks with special guests, Michael Hyatt and Megan Hyatt Miller, about the new Full Focus Planner Pro Certification program. They discuss what this program makes possible for you and how it will open the door to a whole new level of productivity, goal achievement, and success.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Who the Full Focus Planner Pro Certification program is for
How to get insider access to product announcements and testing
What bonus gifts are on offer for those who register in 2021
A new, exclusive community for deeper connection and in-depth training

Resources:

Full Focus Planner Certification

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#116: How to Set & Keep Meaningful Traditions Nov 22, 2021

The holidays are approaching, and you wish you had more traditions in place to make the time more meaningful and celebratory. But where do you even start? Do traditions happen accidentally, or can you intentionally create the kind of experience you want?

In this episode, Courtney, Verbs, and Blake go over four stepsto creating a new tradition. They discuss how traditions can be like rituals or habits that you automate. When you take what you know about goal-setting and apply it in this context, you can create new traditions that help you slow down and make memories you and your family will look back on fondly long after the holidays are over.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How to use the components of setting goals to create traditions
The value of deciding on timing and scheduling traditions in advance
Why it can be helpful to adapt a tradition to honor people you’ve lost
How the Self-Care Planner helps clarify the outcomes you want

Resources:

Full Focus Planner Community

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#115: Hosting Survival Guide - How to Stay on Track When the House Is Packed Nov 15, 2021

The holidays are here, and you’re gearing up to spend time with family and friends. But the challenge is, the work doesn’t stop. If anything, it’s ramping up for that year-end push. How can you get your work done and spend time with the people around you when your space is overrun and your rhythms are thrown off track, without getting stressed out or rude in the process?

In this episode, Courtney, Verbs, and Blake discuss four actions you can take to work from home during the holiday season and remain at your best. Whether you’re hosting people, or you’re a traveling guest, you can remain focused and productive when you approach your days with intentionality.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How defining your work hours sets you up for quality family time later
Why anticipating your guests’s needs leads to less workday interruptions
The benefit of actually leaving the house during work hours
The power of setting your Daily Big 3 to reduce the undercurrent of stress

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#114: Four Actions to Boost Your Gratitude Year-Round Nov 08, 2021

Gratitude is something you aspire to but struggle to actually practice. It’s a cycle. November approaches, and you remember to count your blessings. But then Thanksgiving passes, and you resume life as usual, your thoughts about being more thankful fading into the background. How do you keep gratitude more top of mind?

In this episode, Courtney and Blake discuss four actions you can take to feel grateful all year round. Aspirations can turn into true change when you develop new habits of thought and behavior along the way. “Becoming more grateful” doesn’t have to remain a vague aspiration. You can make gratitude part of your life when you stop and say “thank you,” write it down, track your wins, and leverage your imagination.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

The subtle power of communicating the words, “thank you”
How to shift into the mindset of gratitude when you’re not feeling it
The importance of practicing simple acts of celebration
How to leverage your imagination with “the George Bailey effect”

Resources:

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#113: Overcoming the Lies That Undermine Celebration Nov 01, 2021

You’re invested in achieving your goals. But recently, the joy has gone out of the journey. You’re quick to notice where you’re falling short. Every time you hit a major milestone, your eyes are already on the next obstacle. You find yourself frustrated and tired. The solution isn’t to push through. It’s to pause and celebrate.

In this episode, Courtney and Blake talk candidly about what makes celebration so important—and so hard for high-achievers. The likely culprit? The lies we believe. But you’re not the victim of your thinking. Noticing and unpacking your internal obstacles is the first step toward defeating them.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

An underrated energy source
Why celebrating past wins can lead to future success
The correlation between how we treat ourselves and how we treat others
What makes celebration valuable for training our brains
Solidarity if practicing celebration is hard for you

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#112: Defeat the Sunday Scaries by Designing Your Weeks Oct 25, 2021

It’s Sunday, and you realize the weekend is over and the week is about to come at you full force. You’re anticipating all the things waiting for you on Monday morning. You’re stressing about what needs to be accomplished. You’re anxious about what you might have forgotten. Is there a way for the start of the week to feel less like a potential house of horrors?

In this episode, Blake and Courtney discuss how to overcome the Sunday Scaries by considering four key categories as you plan for the upcoming week. They show you how various parts of the Weekly Preview can help you prevent that feeling of dread, so you can start and end your week at ease.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

What to do when your task list feels impossible to complete
How to avoid getting caught by surprise with important meetings
Why being proactive to schedule connection is vital for self-care
The value of reviewing your goals every week

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#111: The Most Underrated Resource for Goal Achievement Oct 18, 2021

Have you ever found yourself in the “messy middle” of a goal? You’ve come too far to turn back, but the finish line still feels far away. Do you let the goal slide and give up? Do you grit your teeth and just push through, even if you’re running on empty? How do you get through this part of the journey?

In this episode, Blake and Verbs talk with Marissa Hyatt, director of marketing, about one of the most valuable resources for goal achievement: encouragement. They go over four actions you can take to refuel emotionally and replenish your confidence, sense of agency, and belief—and get to the other side.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How to make encouragement a natural part of your relationships
Why you should curate your media for your current emotional needs
The power of the phrase “if I say so”
The surprising value of a daily treasure hunt

Resources:

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#110: How to Clear Your Calendar in Your Busiest Seasons Oct 11, 2021

Do you feel like you don’t have space to breathe during the fourth quarter? Work has picked up. Meetings seem to be multiplying. Family demands are increasing. Your calendar is packed, and you’re jumping from one thing to the next. How can you keep yourself from feeling spread thin, burnt out, and unable to actually enjoy the “fun things” you’ve said yes to?

In this episode, Courtney, Verbs, and Blake walk you through the four keys of calendar triage. You don’t have to feel swept away by this last quarter of the year. You can take back your calendar, redefine what full looks like, and set yourself up to win.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

The filter you must have clarity on before you do calendar triage
What to ask yourself as you reevaluate the necessity of meetings
How to get out of an existing commitment with integrity
Why it’s essential to schedule time for margin

Resources:

Shorter: Work Better, Smarter, and Less―Here's How by Alex Soojung-Kim Pang

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#109: Defeat Productivity Enemies with This Two-Pronged Attack Oct 04, 2021

You get to the end of the day, only to realize it wasn’t nearly as productive as you wanted it to be. You got caught responding to urgent requests from others. You spent too long responding to emails. You jumped from task to task as each one entered your mind. How do you defeat these daily interruptions and distractions? What can you do to get on track for a productive last quarter?

In this episode, Courtney, Verbs, and Blake walk you through a series of strategies to get the interruptions and distractions under control. You don’t have to let your time get hijacked. You can design your days rather than drifting through them and, in turn, make greater gains toward your goals.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

The difference between interruptions and distractions
How to head off others’ interruptions by signaling your unavailability
Why you should make an actual list of what distracts you
The value of building regular breaks into your schedule

Resources:

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#108: 3 Mental Shifts to Win in Q4 Sep 27, 2021

You’re coming to the end of the year, and you’re tired. Momentum has slowed, and you’ve fallen behind on your goals. You know the holidays are coming, which will take huge chunks of the time you have left. You feel behind before you even start the fourth quarter. Should you just write it off and start thinking about next year? Or is there a way to actually make gains in these last few months?

In this episode, Courtney, Verbs, and Blake walk you through three mental shifts you need to make so you can win in the final quarter of the year. They show you how to hit pause and give yourself a chance to reset, so you can take full advantage of the time you have left and cross the finish line with confidence.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

The mindset-shifting power of revisiting your why
Why arbitrarily going down your to-do list is the wrong strategy
How to reset the narrative that connects what you do to who you are
The far-reaching effects of appreciating people versus the tasks they do

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#107: 4 Tips for a Successful Quarterly Preview Sep 20, 2021

A new quarter has begun, with all of its new deadlines and tasks, and you’re still furiously trying to tie up the last quarter. All of a sudden, you’re in “reaction mode.” You’re struggling to think strategically. How can you set yourself up for a win instead of drowning in busyness?

In this episode, Courtney and Blake discuss four tips for conducting a successful Quarterly Preview. They talk about how to pave the way for success, so you don’t end up overwhelmed, whiteknuckling your way through. A lot of people underestimate the power of a Quarterly Preview, but when you make the most of this process, you start the quarter off empowered and ready to meet the challenge of whatever may come.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Why it’s essential to schedule time now for next year’s quarterly previews
The influence a new location can have in helping you make a mental shift
How reflecting deeply exposes recurring themes to address
The power of planning ahead to build confidence, energy, and excitement

Resources:

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#106: Unlock the “Fresh Start Effect” with Weekly Preview Sep 13, 2021

You get to the end of the week and feel like it was a fail. You were busy the whole time but didn’t actually get to the things you wanted to do. You’re feeling behind and off course from your goals. You wish you could have a redo. Is there a way to clear the deck and start over?

In this episode, Blake and Courtney walk you through four steps to leverage the psychological reset button of the Weekly Preview. They discuss the Fresh Start Effect and how new beginnings often bring renewed energy and perspectives, which you can experience every week as you assess, make mental shifts, and start again.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How to exit doing mode and enter strategic mode
Why thinking of missteps as resistance training empowers you for success
The question to ask yourself to define next week’s win
The power of treating next week as an experiment

Resources:

Full Focus Planner Community

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#105: Helpline: How to Make Progress on “Off” Days Sep 06, 2021

Some days you just aren’t on your toes. You didn’t sleep well the night before. Or you fought with someone you care about. Or you’ve received some bad news. It’s hard to show up and get stuff done. But your work doesn’t just disappear because you’re having an off day. What do you do when you feel off kilter?

In this episode, Courtney, Verbs, and Blake walk through four tips for balancing productivity with self-kindness when you’re having an “off” day. These days happen to everyone. The key is having grace for yourself and using the right tools to set yourself up for momentum and success the next day.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How small actions can get you into the rhythm of the day
The power of rituals to help you start feeling more like yourself
Why it’s okay to dial back to a Big 1 or a Big 2 on “off” days
When taking care of yourself may be your highest-leverage move

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#104: Helpline: How to Hit Your Daily Big 3 Aug 30, 2021

You’re in a funk where you find yourself consistently missing your Daily Big 3. You’re getting pulled off-track by other people’s priorities, feeling bogged down by too many meetings, and losing sight of what your Daily Big 3 should be. It’s like you’re on a treadmill—always moving but not getting anywhere. How can you break out of this trap?

In this episode, Courtney, Blake, and Verbs offer up 4 strategies for nailing your Daily Big 3 every day. They show you how little changes can go a long way and discuss practical tips for getting back on track, so you can stop feeling pulled in too many directions and start building momentum again.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

The efficacy of narrowing the time designated for each project
How to mentally pace yourself throughout the day
The difference between a project and a task
Why it’s totally fine to sometimes have a Daily Big 1 or Daily Big 2

Resources:

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#103: Helpline: Planner Coaching Call Aug 23, 2021

You have a lot going on in your life right now. You’ve been doing what you can to work on your productivity, but there’s still too much to do. No matter what you try, you just can’t seem to break through the obstacles. What next? How do you get unstuck?

In this episode, Blake, Courtney, and Verbs answer the SOS of planner user Mariana and help her tackle her cycle of overwhelm. They discuss the inherent discomfort of growth and the necessity of shifting as your circumstances shift. You don’t have to stay stuck in your busyness and stress; you can experience breakthrough when you leverage the Full Focus System and the Full Focus community.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

The tie between your emotions and your perspective
How stress and being out of control can damage your critical thinking
The truth that perfection is the enemy of done
Why the growth of your team starts and ends with you

Resources:

Schedule a call with one of our business consultants here!
3 Steps to Getting More Done in Less Time webinar
Full Focus Planner Community

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#102: Helpline: I’ve Fallen Behind on My Goals Aug 16, 2021

You’ve set good intentions for what you want to achieve this year, but then life happened. You’ve fallen completely behind and are beating yourself up about it. Can you recover when you’re so far off track? What can you do now, so you still end your year feeling confident about what you’ve achieved?

In this episode, Courtney and Blake talk with Deidra Romero, Client Success Specialist, about how to get back on track with a goal when you’ve fallen behind. They share 4 simple questions to ask yourself so you can reset, give yourself grace, and chart a new course.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How adjusting the method of a goal can lead to achieving your true aim
Why deadlines are helpful tools but not helpful masters
What it looks like to plan ahead realistically for obstacles
Simple ways to keep your goals visible at all times

Resources:

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#101: Full Focus Planner 101: Back to Basics Aug 09, 2021

Have you ever fallen off the Full Focus Planner wagon? Maybe you’ve taken some time off and are struggling to get on your feet again. Or your kids are heading back to school, but you’ve grown lax and are not prepared for the shift in seasons. You haven’t used your planner in a week, and jumping back in feels overwhelming. What do you do to get back on track?

In this episode, Courtney and Blake talk with Marissa Hyatt, Director of Marketing for Full Focus, about pushing the reset button after you’ve lost your rhythm. They’ll take you back to the basics and remind you of the 3 keys of the Full Focus System to help you get reoriented and back to being purposeful and productive every day.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How writing your goals down kickstarts mental and emotional momentum
Why you have to be intentional to be truly productive
The journey from resetting your mindset to taking action
3 bonus tips for for getting back on track with your productivity

Resources:

Annual Goals Poster
Full Focus Planner Community

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#100: Podcast Party: Our 100th Episode + Listener Wins Aug 02, 2021

You’re using the Full Focus Planner and listening to the podcast. You’ve made strides in your own productivity and want to share the excitement and hear how the community has been learning and growing and winning as well!

This week, Courtney, Blake, and Verbs celebrate the 100th episode of Focus on This and discuss the biggest lessons they’ve learned along the way. They listen to wins listeners have had and share various ways the Full Focus System can change your life and help you achieve the Double Win.

In this episode, you’ll discover how the Full Focus System can help you—

Become more efficient and effective today and long-term
Undertake a big change and see exponential results
Become more involved as a parent and a partner
Get better results and better rest

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#99: Pro Tips: Creative Ways to Level Up Your Planner Jul 26, 2021

You’re getting into the rhythm of using the Full Focus Planner, but you wonder if there are more strategies or ways to use it that would take you even further. What great ideas are out there that you haven’t thought of yet? How do people from various backgrounds and in different stages of life use the planner?

In this episode, we listen to 12 planner hacks from you, the Full Focus Planner community! Courtney and Blake respond to your tips and tricks and find inspiration for some hacks of their own. The best ideas come from community, and this week we’re taking a cue from you on how to get further, faster.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Another way to use the rolling quarters page
A color-coding method so you get a sense of the week at a glance
How to set yourself up to more easily find the notes you need
A strategy for syncing up with your team every week

Resources:

Focus on This Episode 88: “Three One-of-a-Kind Ways to Use That Weekly Preview Page”

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#98: Pro Tips: Persuading Your People to Try the Planner Jul 19, 2021

You’ve found a transformational tool in the Full Focus Planner, but you’re confused why stakeholders in your life don’t share your enthusiasm. You want to be able to pursue goals together, improve your teamwork, and get on the same page. But how do you persuade them to give it a try?

In this episode, Courtney and Blake answer the often-asked listener question about how to get your people on board with the Full Focus Planner. They offer 4 tips for persuading your friends, family members, boss, or coworkers. They help you remember what was hard when you first started but also why the results are more than worth it—so you can offer the same transformation to those close to

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Possibility questions to ask that cast a vision for a different future
Why treating it like an experiment lowers pressure and increases buy-in
How to proactively remove obstacles to starting the planner
The power of creating rhythms of using the planner together

Resources:

Shave 10 Hours Off Your Workweek guide

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#97: Reclaim Your Weekends in Four Simple Steps Jul 12, 2021

You’re looking forward to getting some rest and rejuvenation over the weekend, but it goes by in a flurry with this event and that errand and those late-night hours binge-watching the latest show. Before you know it, it’s Monday again, and you don’t feel rested at all, much less ready to face the week. Is there a better way to do weekends?

In this episode, Courtney, Verbs, and Blake discuss why what you do on the weekend matters. They walk you through 4 tips for getting the most out of your weekends, so you set yourself up for the energy and clarity you need to succeed in the coming week.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Why the Ideal Week and Daily Big 3s are not just for work
The value of creating weekend rituals for your family
How scheduling your Weekly Preview frees you to let go and relax
That rest is not a reward but an asset that helps you produce results

Resources:

Guided Weekly Preview

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#96: How It’s Made: Full Focus Planner Edition Jul 05, 2021

Ever wondered how the Full Focus Planner came to be? Every spec, from type of binding to paper quality to the cloth wrapped around the covers, has been specially selected to enhance the end user experience. How does that all happen?

In this episode, Courtney, Verbs, and Blake talk with Adam Hill, director of product development and design, about the nuts and bolts behind the Full Focus Planner. They’ll share stories, processes, how decisions are made, and even how the oatmeal planner started out as a mistake. Before it was named the best daily planner by Forbes magazine, this is how the Full Focus Planner went from idea to finished product.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

The many steps between concept ideas and a planner in your hands
How changes and new iterations of the planner are executed
What factors are considered when creating a new planner
The 3 buckets of idea sorting and how to react to each one
Behind-the-scenes stories of the Full Focus Planner’s early days

Resources:

Adam and Verbs starring in the Full-Fail Meetings videos

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#95: Parent Panel: How to Prioritize Rest While Raising Kids Jun 28, 2021

As a parent with kids at home, you feel on demand 24/7. You’re tired and overwhelmed, but your roles and responsibilities never stop. It’s affecting both your parenting and your work. You know rest is important, but how do you even begin to get the rest you need?

In this episode, Blake interviews Courtney and her husband, Chase, and Verbs and his wife, Verna, as they share the strategies they’ve developed to maintain rest as a priority while raising kids. They share their daily and weekly routines and how they plan rejuvenation into their schedules, so they can be the kind of parents they want their kids to experience while also advocating for each other’s rest.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Why creating varying Ideal Weeks helps you adjust in different seasons
The importance of scheduling a weekly day of rest for the family
How to reframe rest, so you experience holistic restoration
2 vital practices for syncing up with your spouse to plan for margin

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#94: Doctor’s Orders: 7 Ways to Get the Rest You Need Jun 21, 2021

Your life looks good on the outside, but you wake up every day tired and overwhelmed. You know it’s an issue, but you don’t know what to do about it. Is there more you can do, beyond just getting more sleep? How do you find a deeper sense of restoration, so you don’t walk around every day in functional burnout?

This episode welcomes Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith, a board-certified internal medicine physician, international wellness expert, and the author of Sacred Rest, to talk about the 7 types of rest you need and what to do when you have a deficit. She will unpack how to identify where your deficits are and what you can do to stop living burned out but instead live restored, energetic, and passionate.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

The distinction between sleep and rest
Why rest is more than cessation of activity
How you may unconsciously experience sensory overload
What factors play a role in your fatigue and recovery time Practical ways to integrate rest as a part of your lifestyle

Resources:

Sacred Rest by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith
Personal Rest Assessment

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#93: Restore Your Energy with Self-Care Rhythms Jun 14, 2021

You feel tired all the time and are not even sure when it started. You try to go on vacation once a year, but it doesn’t feel like enough. You’re concerned that this exhaustion is affecting your performance, both at work and at home. What can you do on a regular basis to stay energized throughout the week?

In this episode, Courtney, Blake, and Verbs brainstorm ideas for the 5 categories of self-care and offer tips on building it into your week. They show you how to leverage the Weekly Preview, so you can more consistently engage in self-care and be at your best from day to day—and not just when you finally have the chance to go on vacation.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Strategies for winding down at night and getting enough sleep
Why the people you connect with impact your energy
The value of giving yourself the freedom to play
5 tips for filling out the self-care section of the Weekly Preview

Resources:

Guided Weekly Preview
chiliPAD Moment app Cook Once, Eat All Week by Cassy Joy Garcia BreakHIIT

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Introducing our Free Guided Weekly Preview! Jun 10, 2021

We're excited to share this excerpt of our Guided Weekly Preview with you. Hosted by Blake Stratton, this audio is designed to be played while you're filling out your weekly preview. Blake shares best practices, definitions, helpful tips, and personal stories to help you make the most out of this crucial Full Focus Planner tool.

If you like what you hear and want to get the whole 22-minute guided preview for free, then visit www.focusonthispodcast.com/preview.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#92: 5 Steps to Planning Your Dream Vacation Jun 07, 2021

Have you ever returned to work after some time off and felt like you needed a vacation from your vacation? Maybe you were checking your phone and emails so often that you brought the office with you. Or you spent too much time doing and not enough time resting. Is there a way to go on vacation and return rejuvenated rather than just as tired as when you started?

In this episode, Courtney, Verbs, and Blake talk about how to set up your time away from work to get the rest you need. They share 5 steps for planning the fully unplugged vacation of your dreams, so you can leave with confidence and return refreshed and ready to jump back in.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How casting a vision for what you want turns hopes into actual plans
A step-by-step plan for equipping your team to cover your bases
Why it’s necessary to define “emergencies” before you leave
The value of blocking off 2–3 days to tie up loose ends and get to inbox 0

Resources:

Vacation Optimizer

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#91: The Best of Both Worlds: Using Technology with a Paper-based Productivity System May 31, 2021

You set yourself up with all the latest productivity tools to get ahead of your busy days. But now you find yourself monitoring too many systems and never knowing where you put that one piece of information. You feel frustrated—and maybe even a little guilty—that you’re not using your planner the right way. You need a system that keeps you focused and tracks all the complicated, changing information that’s part of your job.

In this episode, Courtney, Blake, and Verbs share how they each use technology in conjunction with their Full Focus Planners. They offer 3 tips for figuring out a personalized hybrid system that works for you, so you can streamline and integrate a productivity system that empowers your most important work.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

4 questions to consider while customizing your own system
Why you should limit the role of multi-function digital tools
The case for deleting work apps from your phone
When to use digital tools versus your planner for maximum productivity

Resources:

Things task manager app

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#90: Finding Your Agency on Pre-assigned Tasks May 24, 2021

Week after week, you find yourself working on projects you dread. You don’t understand why they’re important. You’re not good at them. But if your boss is dictating your to-do list, it’s not as if you have a choice, right?

You have more agency than you think. In this episode, we’ll dive into four strategies you can practice to start doing more work you enjoy and less work you dread. When you do, your company will benefit—and your career will, too.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

An insightful tool for identifying the work you love
How to leverage your thinking to change your experience
An often overlooked reason you might not be enjoying your work
When—and how—to approach your boss
Giveaways that it’s time to look for work elsewhere

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#89: Solving the Riddle of Rolling Quarters Pages May 17, 2021

You missed your friend’s birthday—again. You completely forgot about your annual physical and double-booked yourself. Your anniversary snuck up on you, and now you’re trying to make last-minute reservations. You hate feeling the guilt and panic of losing track of dates that matter.

What you need is a better look at the big picture. That’s why we designed Rolling Quarters. Rolling Quarters give you an annual view within your quarterly planner, so you can track important dates and commitments and see your year at a glance. In this FAQ episode, we’ll dig into a question from our Facebook community, sharing tips and tricks for how to get the most out of this planner tool.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How to set up your Rolling Quarters page
Ideas for events and happenings to track
Courtney’s favorite part of her past job
One strategy for leveraging Rolling Quarters to track your goals
Another round of the Review Corner

For a full tutorial on how to set up your Rolling Quarters page, visit fullfocusplanner.com/start.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#88: Three One-of-a-Kind Ways to Use That Weekly Preview Page May 10, 2021

You’re getting better and better at using the Full Focus Planner to help you organize your life and achieve more. But every week when you start your weekly preview, you feel unsure how to use “that” page, the one with a blank box for each day of the week. What exactly is it for? How can you maximize it to accomplish your goals?

In this episode, Courtney, Verbs, and Blake zoom in on the page people ask about most often: the weekly overview page. They discuss 3 lenses to consider as you decide how best to tailor it to your needs. Because there is no “one size fits all,” but there are all kinds of ways to leverage this page as you prepare for the week and set yourself up for success.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How to set mini-milestones toward your Weekly Big 3
4 ways to track the execution of your routines
The value of setting healthy expectations for the week ahead
How to get in sync with your spouse on a weekly basis

Resources:

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#87: Ask the Hosts: Answers to Your Biggest Questions on Goal Achievement May 03, 2021

You have the Full Focus Planner and are already starting to see some progress toward your goals. But you keep running into situations you’re not sure how to handle. What do you do when you miss a goal? How do you stay on track when you’re in a season where life is out of balance? Where can you get advice on how to tackle all this?

In this episode, Courtney, Verbs, and Blake answer ten questions from the Focus on This community on how to practically maximize the Full Focus system. They’ll share tips they personally employ and show you how to make the system work for you so you can move forward with confidence to achieve your goals.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

5 steps for keeping your goals relevant quarter to quarter
How to reset in the middle of an off day
Which pages of the Full Focus Planner to zero in on to “go big”
Best practices to build awareness of life’s open loops for list sweeps
How to use the Full Focus system away from work on the weekend

Resources:

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#86: Sleepless and Successless—Why Better Rest Leads to Better Work Apr 26, 2021

You’re at work early every day, because your to-do list is a mile long. You’re trying your best to hustle, using all the productivity strategies and apps, but you’re exhausted, your focus is scattered, and your patience is wearing thin. What’s missing? What else can you do? In this episode, Courtney, Verbs, and Blake discuss one of the most important productivity tools most people don’t talk about: sleep. They reframe the negative narrative around sleep and show you three reasons getting why quality sleep is essential for high performers. In this episode, you’ll discover— Why sleep is an asset—not a liability—to your productivity The impact sleep quality and quantity has on performance How sleep refreshes your emotions and disrupts the cycle of stress Pro tips for shutting down at night and sleeping better Resources: Focus on This Episode 83: “The Life-Restoring Magic of Daily Rituals” iPhone Bedtime feature DOHM sound machines Sleepcasts by Headspace Win at Work and Succeed at Life by Michael Hyatt & Megan Hyatt Miller See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#85: The Hidden Power of Hobbies Apr 19, 2021

You feel stagnant, like life is an endless cycle of going to work and coming home. There’s nothing on your calendar you’re really looking forward to. Can you be burned out and bored at the same time? How can you escape this sense of being in suspended animation?

In this episode, Courtney, Verbs, and Blake offer a counterintuitive solution to the stasis of burnout: adding something to your calendar. They’ll show you the four surprising gifts that come from investing in a hobby—and how that can help you find renewed creativity and energy for both work and life.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

The power of active rest
The benefits of letting your mind wander
How being new at something leads to the greatest gains
Examples of activities that give you energy

Resources:

BreakHiit Win at Work and Succeed at Life by Michael Hyatt & Megan Hyatt Miller
The 4 GIFs of Having a Hobby:
Innovation - https://giphy.com/embed/pOAJ9UVzFLHTnhhjOJ
A Beginner’s Mindset - https://tenor.com/view/learning-cant-wait-to-learn-gif-9334907
Rejuvenation - https://tenor.com/view/bear-charging-gif-10139371
Enjoyment - http://gph.is/1dsY23l

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

EXCLUSIVE: Sneak Peek of New Book, Win at Work and Succeed at Life Apr 15, 2021

Today's episode is an exclusive look at the first chapter of Megan and Michael's new book, Win at Work & Succeed at Life. It comes out on April 20, but you can preorder the book now at winandsucceedbook.com.

Also, we're very excited to share that Michael and Megan will also be holding an event called "Win at Work and Succeed at Life LIVE" on April 20th. To get admission to this online event, all you have to do is pre-order the book at winandsucceedbook.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#84: Blending an Ambitious Career with a Meaningful Life Apr 12, 2021

You’ve heard over and over that the key to success is to work harder and longer than everyone else—but you do so at the expense of your health and your loved ones. Or, perhaps you’ve determined the cost isn’t worth it. So you seek out a better sense of well-being but pump the brakes on your ambition. Can you really only have either a thriving career or a healthy personal life? Is there a third option?

In this episode, the crew at Focus on This talk with Michael Hyatt and Megan Hyatt Miller about their new book, Win at Work and Succeed at Life. They walk you through the intentional strategy that improves results both at home and at work, so you can take back control of your life and find freedom and margin and more opportunities than you ever thought possible.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

3 nonnegotiables to set as you design your Double Win
Why the issue is not quantity of time but intentionality
How to create breathing room when you’re in survival mode
Strategies for proposing a Double Win experiment to a skeptical boss

Resources:

Win at Work and Succeed at Life by Michael Hyatt and Megan Hyatt Miller

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#83: The Life-Restoring Magic of Daily Rituals Apr 05, 2021

You are in a season of change and instability. Maybe you’ve moved, started a new job, or had a baby, and you’re feeling disoriented, struggling just to get by. You need something to anchor your days. But what can you do in the middle of, well, life?

In this episode, Verbs and Blake welcome Courtney back from maternity leave and discuss how you can shift from being at the mercy of your life to purposefully setting the tone for your days. They show you how to leverage the power of rituals so you feel successful and energized—even in the middle of life’s inevitable chaos.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Why rituals provide stability when everything else is in disarray
The value of intentionality as seasons shift
The benefits of seeing rituals as a part of your job for the day
How to design rituals that reduce stress

This episode is brought to you by Michael and Megan's newest book, Win at Work and Succeed at Life. Enjoy Michael and Megan exploring what it takes to achieve the Double Win, recounting stories that bring joy and some that sting, while laying out how you can win at work and succeed at life. Preorder your copy today at www.winandsucceedbook.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#82: 5 Steps to Refresh Your Rituals Mar 29, 2021

The days are starting to feel a bit off. You’re not completely sure when it started, but there’s an undeniable disconnect. It’s hard for you to start up and wind down, and the boundaries of your days are beginning to blur together. The likely culprit? Your rituals.

Rituals are designed to be habitual, but they also need to be reexamined from time to time. Blake, Verbs, and Marissa will walk you through five steps you can take to ensure you’re getting the most out of your rituals—so you can create rhythms that set the tone you want for your days.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Why it’s vital to clarify the end result you’re looking for
Questions for reassessing what’s working and what’s missing
2 strategies for tweaking your ritual when it’s not working for you
The power of experimentation in creating the experience you want
When to do reviews to regularly optimize your rituals

Resources:

Break HIIT

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

BONUS: 4 Ways an Executive Assistant Can Simplify Your Life Mar 25, 2021

You spend your days managing details, scheduling meetings, and replying to emails—by the time you start on the “real work,” the workday is half over. Work bleeds into your personal life as you try to make up for lost time. You can’t go on this way, but it does all need to get done. How can you keep the business running without sacrificing your family and your well-being?

In this episode, Verbs and Blake talk with Tricia Sciortino, Michael’s first virtual assistant and current CEO of Belay Solutions, and Melissa Lawrence, her executive assistant. They show you how to shift from trying to do it all to focusing your energy where it does the most good by hiring and leveraging an executive assistant. What you invest in an assistant you will get back tenfold as you find your way to the Double Win.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

4 responsibilities executive assistants take on to empower your Double Win
How your assistant can become a fierce protector of your priorities
A life-changing system for managing your inbox
The time-saving value of delegating prep work

Resources:

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#81: 4 Instant Fixes for Overworked Solopreneurs Mar 22, 2021

The Double Win sounds great—but as a business owner flying solo, it feels out of reach. Your list of tasks is a mile long. You’re concerned about losing clients. You’re having to master new skills as you go. Is there really enough time in the day to take care of your business and lead a fulfilling life?

In this episode, we tackle challenges that come with running your own business head-on. We’ll describe four common obstacles to the Double-Win and walk you through practical solutions you can start leveraging today. When you do, you’ll finally stop feeling burnt out and start adding hours back to your week.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How to set boundaries with demanding clients
The connection between a lack of motivation and a lack of clarity
Why offering less allows you to provide more value
Strategies to drive results when there’s just not enough time
How to free yourself to do the stuff only you can do

Resources:

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#80: Master the Art of Follow-Up Mar 15, 2021

In the middle of meetings, details fly back and forth at rapid speed. You agree to take ownership of several next steps. But you’ve already forgotten one before you walk out the door, or it falls through the cracks of your overwhelming to-do list. How do you keep track of what you need to do and actually follow through?

In this episode, Verbs and Blake interview Aleshia, Michael Hyatt & Company’s execution extraordinaire, to learn her tips, tools, and hacks for mastering the art of follow-up. They’ll show you how to develop a system for capturing tasks and following through so that you can become the high-achieving colleague others can count on.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How to turn your actions into pro-actions
The value of creating space to think and plan
Why scheduling meetings with yourself keeps your mental to-do list clear
The power of forethought to anticipate needs during meetings
The top five tools and apps to follow up like a pro

Resources:

Full Focus Planner

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#79: How to Escape Inessential Meetings Mar 08, 2021

When you have too many meetings on your calendar, the week feels like it’s half-gone before it even starts. How can you keep from falling behind on your most important tasks when you don’t have time to do actual work? You don’t want your calendar to run your life. But what’s the alternative?

In this episode, Verbs, Blake, and Deidra will show you how to take back your time through the power of auditing your calendar. With plenty of personal examples—including an on-the-spot meeting cancellation of their own—they’ll teach you to determine which meetings to get out of and provide practical strategies for taking back your time.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Four clues to help you identify an unnecessary meeting
Why monologues and meetings should rarely go together
How regularly reevaluating meetings leads to a positive work culture
Tips for regaining time on your calendar even when a meeting is necessary
Strategies for achieving the goal of a meeting without actually meeting

Resources:

Want to replace unnecessary meetings with video? We recommend Loom or VidYard.
Maximize the effectiveness of your meetings with No-Fail Meetings by Michael Hyatt.

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by our free download: Spring Clean Your To-Do List, a six-step guide to transform towering to-do lists into a trimmed-down list that's actually to-do-able. Download the guide at fullfocusplanner.com/printables.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#78: 4 Questions to Clear Your To-Do List Mar 01, 2021

Sometimes, just writing down everything you have to do is overwhelming. You feel discouraged before you even begin. And seeing it all in one place still leaves you stretched thin and running from one obligation to the next. But what if it didn’t have to be that way?

This episode is an invitation to reevaluate your to-do list. We’ll walk you through four questions you can ask yourself to stop doing the work that drives you crazy and start making your best contribution to your business. When you do, you’ll have the peace of mind and confidence that comes from knowing you can accomplish what’s required of you.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Why some tasks don’t actually need to get done
How to eliminate needless decision-making through creating habits
Often overlooked opportunities to delegate tasks
One practice that will help you stop overestimating how much you can accomplish in a single day
Two kinds of tasks you can schedule to relieve stress today

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#77: 4 Ways Your Community Can Catapult You Over Barriers Feb 22, 2021

There are few setbacks more discouraging than stalling halfway into a goal. It’s easy to think you need to “just try harder”—but sometimes, what you actually need is a little help. But how can you help someone help you on your goal achievement journey?

Verbs, Blake, and Neal dive into this question in this story-filled episode. They’ll highlight four key contributions anyone can make to support your goal progress. You’ll finally be able to enlist help to get unstuck—or help someone you love do the same.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Why encouragement is actually simpler than you think
The power of perspective to challenge the stories we tell ourselves
Why solidarity matters—and how to practice it
A challenge to see yourself as more than a self-improvement project
Types of feedback you can request to take you further on your goals

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#76: Growing Closer By Growing Together Feb 15, 2021

How do you align your rituals with your spouse? How can you make sure your Daily Big 3 aren’t at odds? How can you use the Weekly Preview to navigate the logistics of the coming week together?

If you’re married, want to be married, or know people who are married, this episode is for you. We’ve heard your questions about using Full Focus tools with a partner—so today, Blake and Verbs are joined by their spouses to offer some answers.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How the planner can keep homeschool moms sane
Why Blake has middle school band to thank for his marriage
Four questions you can answer with your spouse to prepare for the week
Apps to consider adding to your morning ritual
Why the planner can be your best friend for making room for family time

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#75: How to Set Real-Life #RelationshipGoals Feb 08, 2021

The people you love matter more than anything else. But it’s easy to overlook setting relational goals, and hard to know where to start. You don’t want your relationships to drift aimlessly. But what should you do?

We’ve got a few ideas. This practical, feel-good episode brings together new and old voices for a brainstorming session for the ages. We’ll walk through four categories to consider as you create relational goals—dropping in examples, stories, and encouragement that will inspire you to get creative about how you invest in the people you love most.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How to make time together more meaningful
Resources for improving your understanding of connection
Small habits with big relational impact
Why a new adventure might be exactly what your relationship needs
What a “bike party” is—and why you should care

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by our Date Night Download, a free resource that prompts healthy discussions with your significant other. Download your copy today at fullfocusplanner.com/datenight.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#74: How to Coach Yourself to Goal Success Feb 01, 2021

You always knew pursuing your goal would be hard. But now, it really is. The excitement has ebbed. Roadblocks, old and new, are slowing you down. Discouragement is eating away at your motivation. You need to find a way forward. But how?

We’ve been there, and we’ve discovered the solution in a simple principle: self-coaching. When you practice these four self-coaching essentials, you’ll be able to overcome obstacles and keep moving forward. Soon, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your goals—and becoming someone new along the way.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

The good news about 100% of the challenges you’ve faced
The questions you need to ask yourself honestly
Why pursuing your goals an exercise in integrity
How to power your persistence
What happens to your goals when you don’t give yourself grace

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by our Full Focus referral program. Send $10 to a friend and earn $10 for yourself at fullfocusplanner.com/sharethelove.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#73: Crash Course: 5 Steps to Start Loving Mondays Jan 25, 2021

Sunday night can bring with it a sense of dread. You’ve enjoyed a brief reprieve from the chaos of the week, but now Monday is looming. You don’t hate your job; you’re just not ready to dive back into a mountain of tasks. The solution isn’t a longer weekend. It’s a better plan.

This episode unpacks the Weekly Preview—the tool we’ve designed to help you start loving Mondays again. When you get into the habit of looking back and looking forward, you’ll start each week with the motivation, knowledge, and focus you need to accomplish your most important work and progress toward your goals.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

The kinds of wins to notice—and why you need to celebrate them
Where to find the information that’s essential for goal progress
A simple step to improve your peace of mind
How to prevent getting swept away by what feels urgent
The power of turning goals into weekly objectives

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#72: Crash Course: Master the Key to Goal Progress Jan 18, 2021

You love the way the Full Focus Planner simplifies your life, but if you’re honest, you’re not using it as a goal achievement tool. There are too many demands vying for your attention to think about goals. You want to use your planner to its full potential—but where should you start?

In Part II of our miniseries on our top planner tools, we’re diving into the Goal Detail Page. This simple tool can help you leverage the power of goal achievement to create the life you’ve always wanted. Featuring insight from special guest Marissa Hyatt, this episode will empower you to start getting the most from your planner every quarter.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Why clarity leads to progress
The key to staying motivated
How seeing your goals leads to action
A free tool for keeping your goals visible
The #1 way to overcome procrastination

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#71: Crash Course: Maximize Your Daily Big 3 Jan 11, 2021

It’s so simple, it’s almost elementary. But this one tool can single-handedly cause your days to become more productive and less overwhelming. You’ll be able to accomplish more by doing less. It’s not magic—it’s the Daily Big Three.

The Daily Big Three is the most foundational tool of the Full-Focus Planner. If you don’t know where to start or simply need a refresh, we’ll walk you through what the Daily Big Three is, why it matters, and how to leverage and adapt it throughout your weeks.

You can stop ending the day feeling dazed with a half-finished to-do list. Narrow your focus and boost your confidence with the power of the Daily Big Three.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Why the Daily Big Three might just help you sleep better
The danger of drift—and how the Daily Big Three combats it
The power of connecting your annual goals to daily actions
How the Pareto Principle applies to your productivity
How and when to set your Daily Big Three

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#70: Turn Your Goals Into Action Jan 04, 2021

You’ve set SMARTER goals you’re excited about. Now what? You don’t want to stall your momentum, but your goals are risky enough that you’re not quite sure what to do next.

Planning does little good without action. But figuring out how to move forward is simpler than you think. By asking yourself four simple questions, you can start making progress toward your goals—and keep going until you reach the finish line.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How to know if your first step is too big
The power of the next three steps to get you where you want to go
Why you shouldn’t try to tackle a goal alone
The relationship between seeing your goals and accomplishing them
Why staying connected with your desire is essential for success

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by our Full Focus Planner Annual Subscriptions. Get a year's supply of Full Focus Planners to power a year of achievement at www.fullfocusplanner.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#69: How to Celebrate Despite the Disappointments Dec 28, 2020

Celebration isn’t a luxury. It’s essential. Without it, we lose sight of how far we’ve come—and undermine our motivation as a result. The truth is, we could all use a little more encouragement, especially in a year like 2020.

That’s why today, we’re celebrating you. We asked our listeners to submit real wins from the past year, and you delivered. So join us for this community-wide celebration. You’re bound to learn something new along the way.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Courtney’s big news
Three reasons celebration is important
Why Michael has been able to spend more time with his daughter
How Orlagh got well on her way to writing a book
A Q&A call from Marianna, a self-proclaimed Full-Focus “groupie” with great questions about leveraging an Executive Assistant

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#68: Tackle the Right Goals at the Right Time Dec 21, 2020

There’s so much possibility when you’re planning for a new year. It’s easy to want to want to see drastic improvements in every area of life all at once. But that’s a recipe for missing the mark—and burnout.

The solution? You need a strategy for knowing what to tackle, when. That’s why we’re taking a closer look at four considerations for determining when to tackle your goals. When you stop sabotaging your goal achievement and start tackling the right goals at the right time, you’ll be able to go further, faster.

You’ll finally be able to design a plan for your best year ever that you’ll stick to year-round.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Why you can’t put every area of your life under construction at once
How to pick the goals that have the highest leverage
What to consider if you’re only excited about work
How to balance your number of habit and achievement goals
Our farewell to Courtney as she prepares to go maternity leave

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by Your Best Year Ever Live, a virtual event to help you set powerful goals for the new year. Claim your seat today at bestyearever.me.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#67: Defeat the Beliefs Holding You Back Dec 14, 2020

“Can’t” is a powerful word. It can make you feel trapped, discouraged and small. It undermines your confidence and your results. And it’s a dead giveaway that you’re being held hostage by a limiting belief.

We’ve been there, and we’ve got good news. You can exchange limiting beliefs for liberating truths by following four straightforward steps. When you do, you’ll stop seeing the world through the lens of scarcity and embrace greater possibility. You’ll feel empowered and hopeful—motivated to make a larger impact than ever before.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Tips for spotting a belief that’s holding you back
Practical examples of how our thinking limits our success
How to upgrade your thinking
Steps to make your better beliefs stick
Why you need to grapple with 2020 before you plan for 2021
Upgrading your thinking is just the start of designing 2021.

Take the next step and join us for our goal-achievement course, Your Best Year Ever, by visiting bestyearever.me.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#66 – What SMART Goals Get Wrong (with Michael Hyatt) Dec 07, 2020

And just like that, it’s December. You’re in the home stretch of your quarterly goals and looking ahead at the new year. But there’s a problem: you’re not feeling motivated. Your Q4 goals feel like a grind and setting new goals for 2021 sounds like a chore.

We’ve been there. The good news is, you’re not the problem. Your goals are. After years of helping people set and pursue goals, we’ve discovered one characteristic that multiplies motivation and results. You need riskier goals.

In this episode, the Full Focus team is joined by Michael Hyatt to discuss why setting risky goals is the key to success. They’ll show you how adopting this single change will supercharge your motivation, boost your success, and help you become who you want to be.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

What the SMART acronym gets wrong about goal setting
Why doubt, uncertainty, and fear mean you’re on the right track
How risk sparks innovation
What makes quiet, confident belief contagious
An invitation to design your future at Your Best Year Ever

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#65: Your Holiday Survival Guide Nov 30, 2020

The holidays are supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year—but inevitably, the season feels chaotic. It seems impossible to really be present when so much is happening. And being spread thin can undermine your productivity during the most important quarter of the year.

It doesn’t have to feel like the next few weeks are happening to you. We’ve identified four steps to help you thrive this holiday season. When you follow them, you’ll stop being swept away and start being present for what matters most.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How to set and communicate realistic expectations
Why you may need to adapt your habits
Tips for making sure your most important priorities happen
The advantage of resisting FOMO and exercising your “No” muscle
A special segment with a guest caller that will leave you looking forward to your quarterly preview

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by our daily holiday specials, 12 Days of Christmas. Sign up at fullfocusplanner.com/12days.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#64: Why You Need to Count Your Blessings Nov 23, 2020

It’s easy to be discouraged after a year like 2020. But when we see ourselves as the victims in a narrative, we give up the only thing we always have control over—our response. The solution? We need to practice gratitude.

Gratitude changes the way we experience the world. It opens us up to new possibilities. It builds up the relationships that matter most. It helps us persevere, even when faced with uncertainty. Gratitude is encouraging in the truest sense: it gives us courage.

That’s why this Thanksgiving special is all about gratitude. We’ll delve into why gratitude matters and how you can cultivate it. Then, we’ll practice a little gratitude of our own.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Why gratitude can lead to hope
The difference an abundance mindset can make
How gratitude drives connection
Simple ways you can integrate gratitude into your life
Why Courtney and Verbs are grateful for listeners like you

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by our Black Friday and Cyber Monday sale. Visit michaelhyatt.com/blackfriday to get up to 50% off select products today.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#63: Start Your Workday The Right Way Nov 16, 2020

Somehow, it’s already noon—and you’ve accomplished nothing you intended to. You started the day with good intentions. But then, you had a string of morning meetings and split your time between too many tasks. Now, the day is half gone and you feel like it’s been wasted.

We know what it’s like to feel at the mercy of your day. But we’ve discovered how to leverage the power of rhythms to start each day with clarity and confidence. That’s why we’re unpacking the three simple practices of a workday startup ritual built for breakthrough.

At last, you’ll stop wondering where the day went and start each day with a clear path to success.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Why setting your priorities boosts productivity
How to balance the meetings you need to attend and the work you need to accomplish
What to do to prevent your inbox from derailing your day
And, a special segment with a Full Focus community member about why goal setting and self care might just be the solution to feeling unmotivated

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#62: Reflections on a Journaling Experiment Nov 09, 2020

You’re convinced journaling is a good idea, but you just can’t seem to get started. You have a laundry list of reasons—there’s no time, getting started is overwhelming, or you just can’t seem to find a rhythm that works. But you’re tired of watching yourself make the same mistakes and lose out on personal and professional growth.

Here’s the good news: you’re not the first person who’s tried to start a journaling practice. Our team, representing a range of journaling experience, just finished a 30-day experiment with the brand-new Full Focus Journal. In this episode, we’ll dive into what we learned and invite you to try an experiment of your own by joining us for a community-wide journaling challenge.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How to fine-tune when and where you journal
Why you might need to “mature” your view of journaling
The value of prioritizing journaling in challenging seasons
How journaling shapes the way you move through your day
What makes accountability so powerful—and how you can leverage it

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by our new Full Focus Journal and Black Executive Pocket planner. Get them today at fullfocusstore.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#61: The Power of Journaling Nov 02, 2020

You want to live with intention. But life happens so quickly that you feel like you’re just reacting. The world feels chaotic and you’re wearing thin. This can’t really be living, can it?

We know what it’s like to long to feel grounded and confident about the life you’re leading. To get there, you’ll need to go beyond accomplishing your most important work. You need to learn from your life, shape your thinking, and cultivate self-awareness.

In this episode, we take a practical look at journaling—what it is, why it matters, and how it fits into the Full Focus System. Whether you’re a tried-and-true journaler or just not the journaling type, you’ll learn how engaging in regular reflection can help you get more out of your work—and your life.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How journaling changes what you notice day-to-day
Why even people who don’t like writing should journal
The difference journaling for just 15 minutes can make in your day
How journaling helps boost one of the most important skills of a leader
What’s happening next week—don’t miss this sneak peek!

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by Michael Hyatt's Countdown to 2021. Join this exclusive newsletter and free community of like-minded achievers who are committed to turning 2020's disappointments into 2021's greatest successes. Learn more at fullfocusplanner.com/countdown.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#60: How to Share Ideal Weeks with Your Partner Oct 26, 2020

You’ve mapped out your ideal week, but it never happens—and it’s hard not to blame your partner, spouse or roommate. It seems like you can never get on the same page, and that’s a problem when your lives are so intertwined. The miscommunication and foiled plans are creating tension that’s driving you crazy.

We’ve been there, and we’ve got good news. The problem isn’t a person. It’s your plan. You can collaborate to create a shared ideal week that helps both people experience success and feel supported. All you have to do is follow four straightforward steps.

When you do, you’ll stop having your ideal week derailed and start experiencing the benefits of designing your days. And, you’ll overcome the relational disconnect and finally feel like you and your partner are on the same team again.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How to identify and communicate the most important parts of your ideal week
Why prioritizing your partner is key to mutual support
What question to ask when your ideal week is in conflict with your partner’s
Why you should treat integrating your ideal weeks like an experiment
How to improve your shared ideal week over time

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by Michael Hyatt's Countdown to 2021. Join this exclusive newsletter and free community of like-minded achievers who are committed to turning 2020's disappointments into 2021's greatest successes. Learn more at fullfocusplanner.com/countdown.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#59: How to Handle Interruptions when Working From Home Oct 19, 2020

You want to do your best work and support the people you love. But interruptions to your workday are taking a toll on your focus and ability to do your important work. You hate feeling pulled in multiple directions—like you have to choose between your work and your family.

You can accomplish your most important work without sacrificing your most important relationships. As parents, spouses, and full-time employees, we’ve been there. And we’ve developed proactive strategies that help us invest in the people and work that we love.

When you implement them, you’ll be able to minimize interruptions and increase your productivity without sacrificing the relationships that mean the most.

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by Michael Hyatt's Countdown to 2021. Join this exclusive newsletter and free community of like-minded achievers who are committed to turning 2020's disappointments into 2021's greatest successes. Learn more at fullfocusplanner.com/countdown.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#058: Take Action Now, Perfect It Later Oct 12, 2020

You really believe in the Full Focus System and you know that it will help you feel less overwhelmed—but you can’t seem to get started. The tool itself feels overwhelming! There’s so much you know you need to change to increase your productivity and holistic balance, but you can’t do it all at once. It’s easy to feel discouraged before you even begin.

We’ve been in your shoes, and we’ve become experts in maximizing the effectiveness of the planner. We’ll walk you through four simple actions you can take to implement the Full Focus system gradually by adopting an iterative approach.

When you do, you’ll stop neglecting your planner and start leveraging it to accomplish your most important work.

You can finally stop feeling ruled by the chaos of your life and start living with intention.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Several approaches to begin using the Full Focus Planner
How to identify your next step in using the Planner.
The very first feature of the Planner you should use.
The worst mistake you can make when starting to use the Planner.
How to gain more value from using the Planner over time.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#057: Reach Inbox Zero Without Derailing Your Workday Oct 05, 2020

You sit down to start the day with a clear vision on your most important tasks. But then you check your email. Before you know it, you’ve spent half the day responding to requests and working on other people’s priorities instead of your own. You’re sacrificing your best time and energy in the name of inbox zero. You hate feeling at everyone’s beck and call and can’t stand the way you’re always behind. But what can you do?

There’s another way forward. We know what it’s like to feel trapped by our inboxes. And we’ve developed a four-step strategy for making your inbox work for you. When you implement it, you’ll move from reacting to requests to accomplishing your most important work.

Finally, you can stop being perpetually behind and feel empowered to make real progress towards your goals.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Why you should never operate out of your inbox for task management.
How to stack habits and set aside specific times for checking email.
The difference between synchronous and asynchronous communication.
App suggestions that can make your life a lot easier.
Tips on communicating expectations with team members and clients.
The value of declaring email bankruptcy—and why it’s not as scary as it sounds.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#056: Time to Step Away: Boost Productivity With Better Breaks Sep 28, 2020

You want to accomplish demanding work. But some days, you hit a wall. When you buckle down and push through, you end up burnt out. When you try to relax by scrolling on social media or doing downhill work, you feel stressed because you’re not making any progress. Either way, you wind up exhausted. There has to be a better way.

We know the frustration of feeling stuck alternating between willpower and distraction. But we’ve cracked the code. The key is taking breaks that boost your productivity, not undermine it. Today, we’ll teach you three criteria for doing just that.

You can finally stop ending your workday feeling stressed out and frustrated. Better breaks will help you stay refreshed while empowering you to do your best work.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#055: That’s Not a Goal—It’s a Project Sep 21, 2020

You know that goal you set is important, but you always dread working on it. When you finally stop procrastinating, you never seem to be able to make the kind of progress you want to and walk away feeling drained. It’s so frustrating to feel unable to achieve work you know matters.

You’ve accidentally turned a project into a goal. We’ve done it, too. But completing projects requires different strategies than accomplishing goals. Today, we’ll teach you how to make sure your important projects get done with three straightforward strategies. You’ll feel free to focus on the goals that make the biggest impact, without letting anything important fall through the cracks.

Your days of dreading important work are behind you. It’s time to accomplish the work that matters most.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Questions to ask yourself to determine if you are working on a goal or a project.
How to avoid dependency on external motivation with your goals.
The difference of things you should do versus things you get to do.
How some efforts promote maintenance and others are for growth—and what that means.
What to do with goals that are assigned to you that will make them more exciting.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#54: How to Reevaluate Your Goals and Make Them Exciting Again Sep 14, 2020

You start the year energized by your list of SMARTER goals. But you get a few months in, and your goals aren’t working the way you want them to be. Life looks different now than you planned. When you read your goals each day, you’re feeling less motivated and more uncertain.

We’ve been there. We’ve watched life change in ways we never could have expected. But we’ve learned how to keep our goals relevant by walking through the 5 R’s. When you master this simple process, your goals will give you energy and confidence, even when life throws you curveballs. You'll finally get unstuck and start making progress in life and at work.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How to avoid the anxiety associated with the effect of changing circumstances on your goals.
Why you need to revisit your annual goals every quarter.
Tips on how to build goal checkpoints into your calendar.
What to do when you feel like a failure for not accomplishing a goal.
Strategies for achieving success—even in the midst of pandemics and chaos.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#53: How to Have a Full Focus Workspace Sep 07, 2020

You arrive at work every day laser-focused on your Big 3. Then you walk into the office. Unread reports are stacked on your desk, so you rifle through them. You can’t find a red marker so you run to the supply closet. You open your Planner, then notice it’s sitting on top of that book you have to review. Better start now. You realize it’s lunchtime, and you haven’t started your first real task of the day. How did this happen?

The real villain here is not you or your workload. It’s the clutter in your workspace. It constantly tugs at your attention, finally wearing down your ability to focus. But we can fix that in just a few simple steps.

Follow this easy plan, and you’ll have a clean, inviting workspace that points you toward your top tasks every day. You’ll feel relaxed and focused on your work. And you’ll leave each afternoon feeling a greater sense of accomplishment.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

The negative impact of physical distractions on your work.
What you must do before you ever tackle decluttering.
Why you have to make a bigger mess before you can clean it up.
How to overcome your emotional resistance to decluttering your workspace.
Practical steps on how to group, sort, and select a home for everything.

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by our new Full Focus Kids and Full Focus Students planners. Learn how you can equip your kids for this uncertain back to school season at www.fullfocusplanner.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#52: Expert Tips for Maximizing the Full Focus Planner Aug 31, 2020

The beauty of the Full Focus Planner is that it gathers all of your planning essentials into one package. Like a fine wine or an intriguing novel, the Planner has many aspects that some may not appreciate at first glance. You may even wonder what some of the elements are for. Here’s help. We’ve assembled the best tips, hacks, and customizations used by our team here at Michael Hyatt & Co. Our staff members are past masters in the Full Focus System, and they can show you how to get full value from your Planner.

Try these tips, and you’ll go from scratching the surface to plumbing the depths of Planner use. You’ll gain insight, efficiency, and a high level of personalization, making the Full Focus Planner an even more valuable tool in your work and personal life.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How to track daily wins in your Full Focus Planner.
Practical tips on using timers and short sprints to get important work done.
The value of accountability and how you can use it to increase productivity.
Which portion of the planner you should use if you don’t use anything else.
How annual goals and weekly objectives flow into your daily tasks.

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by our new Full Focus Kids and Full Focus Students planners. Learn how you can equip your kids for this uncertain back to school season at www.fullfocusplanner.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#51: 4 Long-term Benefits of the Full Focus System Aug 24, 2020

You really want to be productive, and the Full Focus System seems like a great solution. Yet you can’t help but wonder, “Do I really have time for this?” It’s a common enough dilemma.

We’ll solve it in today’s podcast. We’ll show you four solid benefits of this system that go way beyond organizing your workday. These are positive changes you can expect throughout every aspect of your life.

Commit to this system, and you’ll start enjoying more balance, focus, and margin in every area of your life. Let’s get you out of indecision prison and on track for the Double Win—winning at work and succeeding at life.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How to transition from productive days to a productive life.
Tips on increasing trust levels from your peers.
The importance of “setting and forgetting” for expanding your capacity.
What makes the Full Focus Planner different from other planners.
A few simple actions that can trigger a snowball effect of growth and productivity.

Remember to check out the new Kids and Students edition of the Full Focus Planner at www.fullfocusplanner.com.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#050: How to Defeat Distractions and Stay Focused Aug 17, 2020

You arrive every day really hoping to get a lot done. But before long, text messages, social media, and office chatter pull you off track. By noon you’re wondering, “What just happened to my day?” It’s so demoralizing to realize that you’ve wasted your best focus time.

Here’s help. We’ve fought our own battles with distraction and interruption, and we’ve developed a foolproof strategy for keeping them at bay. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll get your focus back, finish your to-do list, and leave work feeling satisfied nearly every day.

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by the new Full Focus Pocket planner. Learn more at fullfocusplanner.com/pocket.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

What an “anticipation tactic” is—and how to use them to avoid distraction.
How to identify your unique obstacles to productivity.
The times of day when we’re most likely to fall prey to distraction.
Practical tips for designing around your weaknesses.
How to handle family interruptions when working from home (without hurting feelings).

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#049: How to Implement a Daily Gratitude Habit Aug 10, 2020

You’re working hard to achieve more every day. But sometimes it’s hard to keep a good attitude about work. Things don’t always work out the way you planned. And sometimes life is just unfair. It’s so frustrating to work hard yet have the feeling that you’re not getting the results you deserve.

Here’s a simple pathway out of that swamp. We’ll show you how to leverage the amazing power of gratitude to free yourself from negative thoughts. Plus, it’s rocket fuel for your productivity.

Try it! You’ll be immediately released from that feeling the breaks never go your way. And you’ll gain the energy and optimism to tackle your greatest goal or challenge. As a bonus, you’ll find yourself emerging as a leader at work, or wherever you happen t0 be!

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How your gratitude can affect your entire team—not just you.
Suggestions for small changes you can implement to make huge progress.
Practical tips on how to shift your mindset and see your circumstances differently.
How you can overcome the negative effects of entitlement in your life and work.
Questions you can ask yourself to develop a grateful heart.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#048: The Easiest Way to Start Difficult Tasks Aug 03, 2020

You want to get that big task knocked off. It’s like a weight hanging over you every day. And every day you say, “I’m going to tackle it first thing!” But it’s intimidating! Where do you start? It’s easy to procrastinate. And when you do dive into a big project first thing in the morning, you’re worn out by noon. It seems like you can’t win.

In our experience, there’s a right way and a wrong way to tackle a big project. And most of us have been taught the wrong way! We’ve got a foolproof plan for getting started on your biggest task of the day that will ensure you get it done—and the other things you need to take care of.

Just follow these steps, and you’ll quit procrastinating, start achieving, and have brainpower to spare at the end of the day.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#047: 4 Ways to Solve Your Willpower Issues Jul 27, 2020

Setting goals really turns your crank. But getting them accomplished is harder. Everything takes longer than it should. And it’s hard to keep the willpower going. It feels so lousy to find yourself behind on goal after goal.

Here’s a little secret. You don’t need more willpower to achieve your goals. You need more support. And we can show you how to get it. We’ll give you four ways any of your friends can support your goal achievement. All you have to do is ask.

When you do, you’ll get the encouragement, feedback, and accountability you need to stick with it. You’ll be hitting your goals again in no time!

In this episode, you’ll discover—

The importance of surrounding yourself with encouragers.
Tips for fast-tracking your growth through the experience of others.
What accountability can do for your desired life.
How to recruit partners for joint pursuit of your goals.

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by a free video series, 3 Tips to Equip Your Kids for Back to School. Get access by going to focusonthispodcast.com/backtoschool.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#046: 3 Easy Steps to Triage Your Calendar Jul 20, 2020

You love being focused and in control. But sometimes important commitments get dropped. You find yourself double-booked. Or you overlook an important deadline. Or, worst of all, you let down the people closest to you because you’re too busy. At some point, you realize that your calendar is totally out of control.

We’ve got a solution for that. We finally got tired of being prisoners to our calendar and found a way to break free. In just three steps, you can tame that wild beast and get your life back.

Try it! You’ll go from overscheduled to perfectly balanced. You’ll quit missing important appointments and have room to breathe again. This will be a great leap forward in your productivity and life balance.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How your calendar got in bad shape in the first place—and what you can do about it.
The first decision you have to make before you can overcome your scheduling woes.
Tips for translating your productivity desires into actionable steps.
Which items should make it through your filter and remain on your calendar.
How to say no to requests that aren’t in alignment with your goals.

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by the new Full Focus Kids and Full Focus Students planner, available for preorder now. Learn more at fullfocusplanner.com/preorder.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Lead to Win Spotlight: Avoid These 3 Communication Fails Jul 13, 2020

You’ve got a big vision for your business and you’re building a team to get you there. But where two or three people are gathered, there’s bound to be some misunderstanding. No matter how hard you work at it, you wind up having to repeat yourself. That costs time and wastes momentum. Why does communication have to be so hard?

Actually, it doesn’t. Nearly every communication breakdown can be traced back to one of three problems. Avoid them, and your team will get the message the first time, every time. And you’ll gain even greater clarity about what you want for your business.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

The Clarity Grid—and how you can use it to assess and revive your communication.
Some of the most frequent meeting mishaps and their implications on team morale.
A clear path to the most important component of a healthy culture.
What you must do if you want predictable results.
How to avoid pitfalls related to communication shortcuts.
Why the “curse of knowledge” is so damaging.
How to save yourself (and your team) from embarrassing situations.

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by the new Full Focus Kids and Full Focus Students planner, available for preorder now. Learn more at fullfocusplanner.com/preorder.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#044: How to Stop Repeating Old Patterns Jun 29, 2020

You love to stay focused and achieve great results. But sometimes your work habits get in the way. You realize too late that you’re repeating the same mistakes or missing the same deadlines. It’s so demoralizing to get caught in the same time traps week after week.

We’ve been there, for sure. And we’ve found a way to systematically make changes in the way you work. We’ve got four simple questions to ask at the start of every week. They ensure that you learn from your mistakes, capitalize on your wins, and get a little more productive every day.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

The one thing you need to be able to fix any problem.
How to identify what is (and is not) working for you.
Ideas for small tweaks that can make a big difference in your planning.
Tips on changing your mindset so you’re ready for whatever comes your way.
Suggestions for things you should stop doing right now to increase your productivity.

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by the new Full Focus Pocket and Full Focus Notebooks. Learn more at fullfocusplanner.com/pocket.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#043: How to Avoid Pointless Meetings Jun 22, 2020

You pride yourself on being productive at work. But there’s one problem: meetings! They feel boring and pointless, a total waste of time. It’s so frustrating!

We’ve felt that pain, and we’ve got a perfect solution for you. By asking these few questions before every meeting, you can make every single one super productive.

No more multitasking while you wait for release from conference-room jail. You’ll have fewer, more productive meetings and feel in control of your time again.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Suggestions for bringing life and vibrance back to all of your meetings.
How to determine which team members need to be in each meeting.
Why consensus is not the main objective—and what you should focus on instead.
Some of our best tips for making sure your meetings produce actual results.
How Courtney ensures she’s prepared for every meeting in advance.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

BONUS: Introducing the Full Focus Pocket Jun 17, 2020

You love using the Full Focus Planner, but you sometimes wish it were, well, pocket-sized. Now it is!

Announcing the Pocket Planner, a scaled-down version of the Full Focus Planner you know and love. It has all the features you love about the Full Focus System, and it’s sized just right to take with you anywhere.

In this episode, Joel Miller, the genius behind the Pocket Planner, shares the features that make it perfect for your on-the-go lifestyle.

For more information on the new Full Focus Pocket and Full Focus Notebooks, visit fullfocusplanner.com/pocket.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#042: How to Escape the Messy Middle Jun 15, 2020

You get really excited about goal achievement. But after a few weeks, the buzz wears off. Momentum slows, enthusiasm wanes. It seems like it will never end! Why does every goal turn out to be a marathon?

Actually, that’s all pretty normal. To get to a preferred future, you always have to get through the “messy middle.” We’ve been there too. And based on our experience, we’ve developed a simple solution for getting through the doldrums of goal achievement and regaining your momentum.

Try it, and you’ll escape from the messy middle and get back on track to accomplishing your plans. Finally, you can stop feeling stuck and get excited about your goals again!

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How to make progress toward your goals even when things get tough.
Why context matters in goal achievement—and what to do when it changes.
The importance of revisiting your motivations and reconnecting with your why.
How to identify when a goal needs to be dropped, adjusted, or moved to a different quarter.
Practical steps to lay out a clear path forward toward a successful year.

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by the new Full Focus Kids and Full Focus Students planner, available for preorder now. Learn more at www.fullfocusplanner.com/preorder.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#041: How to Deal with Setbacks Jun 08, 2020

You’ve got big plans, but life has a habit of getting in the way. For every one of your goals, there seem to be a dozen setbacks or problems. Before long, you’re bogged down in delays, frustration, and disappointment. Honestly, it seems like you can’t catch a break!

The truth is that setbacks and failures are inevitable! They’re not the end of the road but the beginning of a fresh start. In this episode, we’ll show you exactly how to harvest the learning from your latest setback, then toss it like a banana peel and keep moving.

Get yourself unstuck and back on track to achieve your goals!

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How to shift from a mindset of failure to a mindset of progress.
Tips for seeing real, three-dimensional growth in yourself even when things aren’t going exactly as planned.
That problems are actually part of the process, not a hindrance to it.
Questions to ask yourself when processing a setback or failure.
How to make sure you learn from even the most unexpected turns.

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by the new Full Focus Kids and Full Focus Students planner, available for preorder now. Learn more at www.fullfocusplanner.com/preorder.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#040: The Link Between Sleep and Productivity Jun 01, 2020

You want to be more productive. And you could be except for one problem. You have to sleep! Sooner or later, you have to quit achieving and start sleeping. What a downer!

Actually, it’s not. Far from undermining your achievement, sleep is an essential ingredient in productivity! We’ll show you why. Plus, we’ll give you 10 tips for getting more and better sleep so you can bring your best self to work every day.

Try this, and you’ll be amazed at the spike in your productivity. You’ll go from yawning your way through the day to being recharged, re-focused, and more productive than ever.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

The effect of sleep on your immune system and cognitive abilities—and why you should care.
How to shift from thinking of sleep as an enemy to thinking of it as a beloved friend and productivity booster.
Tips on improving your sleep hygiene to give yourself the best environment for dozing off.
Why you should exercise daily—and when you should do it.
What you can do during the day to make sure you’re able to sleep at night.

A lot of the research from this episode came from Why We Sleep by Dr. Matthew Walker: https://www.amazon.com/Why-We-Sleep-Unlocking-Dreams/dp/1501144316/

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by Compass, a monthly program to help Full Focus Planner users stay on track with their goals. Learn more at fullfocusplanner.com/compass.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#39: 4 Steps to Protect Your Ideal Week May 25, 2020

You love Mondays, you really do. But they never quite live up to the dream. You plan your week, pick your Big 3, and proof your calendar. But something always pulls you off the rails. Before you know it, deep work is out the window, and you’re running from one meeting to another. Why is it so hard to keep your week on track?

We’ve been there! And in this episode, we’ll show you a simple trick to ensure that you realize your Ideal Week more often than not. Try this, and you’ll go from frazzled to focused. You’ll finally stop bouncing from crisis to crisis and have time for deep work on your most important projects. It works!

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How to identify the times of day when you are at your peak and plan your work accordingly.
Why you need to triage your calendar and task lists when things get crazy.
The questions you need to ask yourself so you can identify your Desire Zone activities.
Suggestions on how to batch your activities according to stages and themes.
The importance of leaving room in your schedule for interruptions—and how to actually plan for them.

Remember to visit www.fullfocusplanner.com/printables for a printable Ideal Week!

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by Compass, a monthly program to help Full Focus Planner users stay on track with their goals. Learn more at fullfocusplanner.com/compass.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#038: How to Optimize Your Weekends May 18, 2020

You like to work hard and play harder. Your weekends are not downtime; they’re “uptime” because you’re up for anything!

It’s all good, but it’s also draining. That makes it hard to get “up for work” on Monday. Why is there always so little time for the things you really love?

Here’s the thing: the Full Focus System works on weekends, just like it does during the week. Today, we’ll show you how to end your weekends with that same “Ahh” feeling you get from a productive week. You’ll escape from that Sunday night exhaustion. And you’ll be rested up, charged up, and rearing to get back to work on Monday morning!

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How to utilize the Full Focus system so it works for you on the weekends, too.
Practical tips for structuring Saturdays and Sundays realistically.
How to have a great weekend whether you are a “pack it all in” type or a “chill” type.
The five main areas of rejuvenation—and how to give attention to each of them.
Why you should plan your spontaneity (it’s a thing!).

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by the new Full Focus Kids and Full Focus Student Planners. Find out more at www.fullfocusplanner.com/preorder.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Introducing Full Focus Kids and Full Focus Students! May 14, 2020

Work from home? No problem! As a high achiever, you’ll thrive in any environment. But for those who happen to be parents, there’s another layer. Now you’re not just managing your productivity. You’re managing your kids’ education and activities at the same time. Talk about a productivity challenge!

Here’s help. The Full Focus Kids and Full Focus Students will bring the same structure and focus to your children’s days as the Full Focus Planner does to yours. Plus, they’ll learn the primary skill they need to succeed in the knowledge economy: focus.

Get Full Focus Kids and Full Focus Students for your family, and you’ll gain back hours of your time and put your kids on the pathway to lifelong achievement!

For more information and to reserve your copies, visit www.fullfocusplanner.com/preorder.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#037: Secrets to a Successful Weekly Preview May 11, 2020

You’re committed to productivity, which is why you love the Full Focus Planner. The Daily Pages are great! But the Weekly Preview? Hmm. Just not sure what to do with that.

No worries. We’ve got tons of experience with the Full Focus System, and we can give you the inside scoop on how to work it seamlessly into your life. Follow these best practices for the Weekly Preview, and you’ll gain confidence in your planning process. And you’ll enter every week refreshed and energized!

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Best practices for setting your priorities for each upcoming week.
What to do if you have a hard time remembering what happened the week before.
Tips for avoiding distraction during your Weekly Preview.
How to use activation triggers and rewards to ensure you follow through.
The importance of not skipping steps—especially when you’re new to the practice.

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by the new Full Focus Kids and Full Focus Students planner, available for a limited time only. Learn more at www.fullfocusplanner.com/preorder.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#036: The Note-Taking Method for Taking Action May 04, 2020

You pride yourself on being a high achiever. But that means tracking a ton of information, and that’s hard to do. You come out of a meeting with only one to-do item, but you forget what it is. You made a note on your tablet, but where is it? Evernote? Google Docs? Word? It’s super frustrating. Why is it so hard to keep track of all those little things?

After thousands of hours in meetings, we’ve devised the perfect way to capture key information for easy retrieval. And it works in other settings too! Follow these three steps, and you’ll never forget an action item again!

You can leave every meeting and end every day with no worry about forgetting something important. You’ll have perfect confidence that everything that needs to be done has been done.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How to capture information so you don’t miss important details or let people down.
The value of intentional inconvenience, and how you can implement it to increase effectiveness.
Suggestions for how to code your notes for followup.
What to do with your notes after you finish taking them.
How to use the Index in the Full Focus Planner to keep up with scattered notes.

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by Compass, a monthly program to help Full Focus Planner users stay on track with their goals, even through today's crisis. Learn more at www.fullfocusplanner.com/compass.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#035: Do You Know Your Chronotype? Apr 27, 2020

Nothing gets you pumped up like being super-productive. But why does it seem that you’re never “on” at the right time? I’m never “on” at the right time. You may feel draggy and tired at work and feel really motivated only later in the evening. Or you start the day with a burst of energy, only to have it sapped in a morning of marathon meetings. It’s so frustrating to feel like you’re wasting your best time and energy.

Here’s help. We’ll show you how to work according to your natural rhythms, which may differ from your 9-to-5 schedule. When you understand your “chronotype,” you’ll instantly dial in on your most productive hours. You’ll match your best energy to high-leverage work, and be more productive than ever.

In this episode, you’ll discover

How to cooperate with your body’s natural rhythms for maximum productivity.
Energy management tips based on your unique chronotype.
Insight into why you and your colleagues don’t naturally operate with the same energy at the same times.
How chronotype tendencies could (and should) affect your ideal week.
Ideas for avoiding traps associated with energy slumps.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#034: 10 Reasons to Keep Track of Your Wins Apr 20, 2020

As a high achiever, you’re totally focused on getting stuff done. But there’s a problem with that. You may get so caught up in the chase that you only see the problems and missed opportunities. It can be super discouraging when you don’t reach your goal.

We know the feeling. And we’ve got a simple practice to keep you energized, motivated, and on track to greater productivity. It’s so easy you won’t believe it: List your wins every day.

That’s it! When you focus on the gain instead of the gap, you’ll instantly shake that coulda-done-better feeling. You’ll start every day with the motivation you need to achieve.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

Tips to help you get out of your productivity funk.
What complaining does to your mindset and your energy.
Why you should actually speak your wins out loud to yourself and to friends and family.
How to identify your gains—and not just focus on the gaps.
Suggestions on how to increase your energy and have more fun.

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by Compass, a monthly program to help Full Focus Planner users stay on track with their goals, even through today's crisis. Learn more at focusonthispodcast.com/compass.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#033: The Long-term Benefits of the Full Focus System Apr 13, 2020

You love to manage your time well, and the Full Focus System is a great help. But it can be a lot to take in all at once. So it’s tempting to focus on the low-hanging productivity fruit and put off implementing the full system.

To experience long-term transformation in your work and life, you need more than just a few productivity hacks. In this episode, we’ll show you how the Full Focus System impacts your entire life, not just your time at work.

Put the full system to work for you, and you’ll become effortlessly disciplined and see huge gains in every domain of life.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

How to build greater trust in all of your relationships.

How our daily choices affect stress levels and well-being—and what to do about it.

Tips for having greater control without depending on willpower.

The secret solution that produces the outcomes you want.

Why hustle is not the only way to find success—and what you should focus on instead.

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by the Original, Classic, Executive, and Bold Full Focus Planners. Learn more at www.focusonthispodcast.com/planner.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#032: 5 Ways to Shift Goals in Crisis Apr 06, 2020

This was going to be your year of big achievements. But the coronavirus has thrown a monkey wrench into your plans. Suddenly, you wonder if you can achieve any of your goals. It’s frustrating, and it feels like a tremendous loss.

Well hang on there, little tomato. We’ve been through some unexpected times before, and we know exactly what to do when your goals get upended. In this episode, we’ll give you five options for reshaping your goals.

When we’re done, you’ll have real, practical possibilities making progress. Rather than being stuck in a holding pattern, you can keep working on goal achievement right now.

In this episode, you’ll discover—

What to do if you feel like your goals are no longer relevant or achievable
How to shift your thinking and focus on hope
Suggestions for reframing your targets to fit your new reality
Tips for alleviating stress and building confidence
Ideas for replacing goals within the 10 major life domains

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by the Original, Classic, Executive, and Bold Full Focus Planners. Learn more at www.focusonthispodcast.com/planner.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#031: 3 Must-Have Communication Tips for Remote Teams Mar 30, 2020

A lot of people are working on remote teams for the first time. It can be frustrating to find new communication rhythms. Remote communication is hard because it lacks context. If you follow the three guidelines we present in this episode, you’ll have seamless communication with your work-from-home team. You’ll quickly adapt to the new normal, be less frustrated, and develop stronger relationships.

In this episode, you will discover—

The importance of increasing communication in times of transition
How communicating should be different when done virtually versus in-person
Suggestions for establishing a new team rhythm that works for your unique circumstances
Why it’s so important to assume positive intent from your co-workers’ messaging (emojis are helpful)
Tips on clarifying availability, expectations, and other rules of etiquette

For more ideas on how to work with your teams remotely, visit www.focusonthispodcast.com/remote.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#030: 5 Tips for Staying Focused While Working from Home Mar 23, 2020

The novel coronavirus has created a new normal in which many people are working from home for the first time. Sounds great! But how do you keep your focus and keep connected in this new environment with all it’s distractions. It can seem overwhelming.

Not to worry. We’ve been working remotely for years, and we’ve got the advice you need to make a smooth transition from the office to the home office. Follow this advice, and you’ll see no letdown in productivity. You may find that you’re even more productive than ever!

In this episode, you will discover—

Why daily rituals are still valid in the midst of a crisis—perhaps even more so
Which components of your rituals can stay the same and which ones need to change
Ideas for how to replace workouts and family activities when your schedule is thrown off
The one practice you need to maintain to help avoid distractions
Suggestions for finding a “focus spot” in your home

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by the Remote Work Handbook. If you’re struggling with remote work in today’s crisis, download this free guide at focusonthispodcast.com/remote.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#029: Too Tired to Crush Goals? Here's How to Fix That. Mar 16, 2020

You dive into the day with a burst of energy—and you get stuff done! Until lunch, that is. Afternoons are a different story. You’re tired. You can’t focus. Your productivity goes into the tank, so you wind up working in the evening and on the weekend.

It doesn’t have to be that way. In this episode, we’ll show you how to manage your energy, just like your time. When you do, you’ll quit feeling spent every weekend and regain the energy you need to be more productive. Better yet, you’ll finally have the vitality to invest in your other interests and most important relationships.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

How to overcome the cultural assumption that you’ll be constantly running tired if you’re going to succeed.
Practical tips on managing your energy and not just spending it.
What happens to your mind and body when you don’t get sufficient rest.
The effect of nutritional choices on your daily workflow—and what to do about it.
How to conserve energy and avoid decision fatigue by eliminating, automating, or delegating choices.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#028: How to Start and Stop Your Workday Mar 09, 2020

You love your work, and you can’t wait to get started! But somehow, the day never goes as planned. You get derailed by low-leverage tasks, and half the time you don’t start your big project until after lunch. By the end of the day, you realize you’ll have to finish up at home. By Friday, you’re totally exhausted—and still not done! Nobody knows rollover like we know rollover. After more Saturdays at the office than we care to remember, we’ve found a way to end the rollover problem once and for all.

You can do that by bookending your day with workday startup and shutdown rituals. When you do, you’ll finally quit leaving the office with a laptop full of take-home work. You’ll get your margin back and be more productive than ever before.

In this episode you will—

Find out why you never seem to “get finished” for the day.
Learn the best way to stop rolling tasks over to the next day.
Understand how the never-ending to-do list is undermining your productivity.
Identify the simple fallacy that causes us to take on too much work.
Gain the simple trick that will help you start and stop work in a controlled way.
Start to feel a sense of completion at the end of the day.

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by Compass, a monthly program to help Full Focus Planner users stay on track with their goals. Learn more at leadto.win/compass.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#027: Two Rituals to Start and End Your Days Mar 02, 2020

As a high achiever, you have the ability to laser focus and put out huge productivity. But it can seem like your life has no boundaries. Work bleeds into personal time. Your personal habits get erratic. Good habits slip away and unproductive ones take their place. It’s time to ditch that feeling that you’re always a step behind, and start beginning and ending each day relaxed, in control, and knowing that you’re taking care of the things that matter most.

In this episode, Courtney and Blake show you two simple hacks that will get your personal habits under control and set you up for a win every single day.

You’ll discover:

How to structure the beginning and end of your day so you consistently accomplish your daily targets.
The relationship between our feelings and rituals—and what we can do about it.
Two questions to ask yourself if your rituals aren’t currently working for you.
Practical steps to avoid getting sucked into your phone or Netflix.
How to identify the activities that will leave you rested and rejuvenated.

This episode of Lead to Win is brought to you by Compass, a monthly program to help Full Focus Planner users stay on track with their goals. Learn more at leadto.win/compass.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#026: How to Leverage Rolling Quarters Feb 24, 2020

Keeping your goals and projects moving is not about time management—it’s all about visibility. We’ve got a foolproof hack for keeping your big rocks visible before they tumble down on you. It’s called rolling quarters.

In this episode, Courtney and Blake give you tips that will help you start working ahead of schedule, and avoid always playing catch up. Rolling quarters will get you out of crisis mode for good and put the margin back into your life.

In this episode you’ll discover—

Ideas for navigating a mid-range view of your planning so you can see what’s coming on the horizon.
How to avoid being surprised by deadlines ever again.
The power of visibility for accomplishing goals.
Practical ways to filter out low-leverage commitments.
Confidence that your time and energy are always being used to their fullest.

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by Compass, a monthly program to help Full Focus Planner users stay on track with their goals. Learn more at focusonthispodcast.com/compass.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#025: How to Set Up an Ideal Week Feb 17, 2020

You’re a high achiever, which means that you’re getting tapped for greater responsibility. You start each day with a plan, but you quickly get sucked into “reaction mode.” Urgent requests and demands on your time crowd out your own priorities. It’s exhausting.

Fortunately, we know a great way to take control of your time and direct the flow of work coming at you. It’s called the ideal week. This simple tool will help you take back control of your time. You’ll say goodbye to reactive mode, get focused on your high-leverage projects, and get a lot more done.

In this episode you will discover—

What to do if your week doesn’t go according to plan.
How to regain control of your time, regardless of your role in your organization.
The motivation and courage to adjust your rituals as needed.
Practical ways to recover pockets of time that are wasted due to faulty scheduling.
How to recover margin and protect what’s important to you.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#024: How to Set Up Your Monthly Calendar Feb 10, 2020

As a high achiever, you’re dialed in on productivity. You know how to get things done. But there’s a problem. No matter how much you produce, you always feel behind. There always seems to be a looming deadline that somehow got missed. That puts you on the hamster wheel nearly every week, hustling to get caught up. It’s exhausting.

There’s a fix for that. It’s called a Monthly Calendar. Start using this tool to keep track of your Big Rocks, and you’ll escape that feeling of being two steps behind. You’ll have plenty of time for your major commitments and deadlines. Better yet, you’ll have lots more time for the “little rocks” too.

In this episode you will—

Learn why a weekly calendar view will not help you track deadlines.
Find a simple way to keep your big commitments visible at all times.
Discover how to gain complete confidence in accepting or declining appointments.
Find the space to fit in other important priorities around big commitments like travel or project deadlines.
Relax, knowing all your major commitments are under control!

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by Compass, a monthly program to help Full Focus Planner users stay on track with their goals. Learn more at focusonthispodcast.com/compass.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#023: 4 Questions to Learn from Mistakes Feb 03, 2020

You’re a high achiever, so you like to attempt big things. The problem is that things don’t always turn out the way you planned. That feels lousy. It makes you want to bury last week and just barrel ahead. There’s a better way.

We’ve discovered a simple process for redeeming your regrets, big and small. Your mistakes and even failures don’t have to keep you stuck. You can learn from your mistakes and emerge even stronger by asking yourself four simple questions. When you do, you’ll no longer feel ashamed of the past or afraid of the future. You’ll gain the insight and confidence you need to make positive changes and achieve better results in the future.

In this episode you will—

Find out the two most common ways to deal with failure, and why they’re wrong.
Learn how to decouple failure from your sense of identity.
See why examining failure openly is essential for future growth.
Get a bonus question that will supercharge your sense of ownership.
Discover a simple trick for making it easier (and healthier) to look at your mistakes.
Identify the critical question for turning goal failure into achievement gold.

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by the Original, Classic, Executive, and Bold Full Focus Planners. Learn more at focusonthispodcast.com/planner.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#022 How to Make a Habit Stick Jan 27, 2020

Your lifestyle goals are important to you. Health and fitness, daily rituals, reading, relationships: these are the things you want to act on every single day. But life is busy! None of these goals takes a ton of time, but they’re still hard to squeeze in. Before long, they can easily drift away. It’s deflating to look back and realize you’ve made no progress on lifestyle goals.

We can help.

We’ve got a simple tool that will keep your habit goals visible and keep you motivated to stick with them. Start using a streak tracker, and your progress will come almost automatically. You’ll never again wonder if you have the discipline to change your life. You’ll do it!

In this episode you will—

Find out how to stay on top of habit goals until they are installed.
Discover the simple mindset shift that will make habit goals easier.
See how rewards can apply to habit goals, not just achievement goals.
Learn a simple way to keep habit goals from becoming overlooked.
Get tips for making a habit behavior satisfying, even when it’s difficult to do.
Be fired up about starting (or getting back on track) with your habit goals!

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#021: Why You Have Boring Goals Jan 20, 2020

You set a lot of goals, but when you look at your goal list, you want to yawn. Your goals are all good things, and you’d be glad to achieve them. But they’re kind of . . . boring.

Boring goals make for a boring life, and you don’t want that. We’ll show you have to set goals that set your heart on fire, goals you’re dying to accomplish. How? By making them riskier. Test your goals for the 3 Factors of Goal Boredom, and you’ll never set a lackluster goal again.

You’ll be excited and engaged with your goals all year long, and you’ll achieve things so good that it literally scares you to think about them.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

What makes a goal boring.
The main reason you set boring goals.
Why you shouldn’t set the same goal two years in a row.
Why it’s good that you don’t know how you’ll achieve.
Questions to help you evaluate whether your goal is risky.

This episode of Focus on This is brought to you by the Original, Classic, Executive, and Bold Full Focus Planners. Start the new year off right with a planner to keep you focused. Learn more at www.focusonthispodcast.com/planner.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#020 Should You Share Your Goals? Jan 13, 2020

So you’ve got this big goal that you’re really excited about. You’re dying to share it with the people around you. But when you do, it kind of backfires. Some people belittle your aspiration. Others seem to think you’re bragging. The whole experience is deflating. It makes you wonder if you should even try this goal.

Yes, you should! And you can share it with people who will affirm and help you. We’ve discovered three foolproof principles for goal sharing. Follow them, and you’ll get rid of all the angst about sharing or not sharing your goals. You’ll find the people who can support you in reaching for your biggest aspirations, and you’ll achieve them!

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bonusode: A 2020 Special Announcement Jan 09, 2020

As a high achiever, you love reaching goals! But added on top of a busy life, goal achievement can seem a bit overwhelming. The Full Focus Planner puts it all into one handy system. Yet you may want a little help getting it up and running. We’ve got you covered! We’ve got a brand-new program called Compass: Your Full Focus Guide, and it’s exclusively for our Full Focus Planner users.

Compass will give you the community support and motivation you need to fully implement the Full Focus System™ so you can hit every goal, every time.

You’ll learn the one best way to set goals. And you’ll get coaching on goal achievement and the support of a community of high achievers just like you.

Inside this episode, you’ll hear more about these amazing features:

Live Weekly Preview Session, so you can add the power of accountability to get your Weekly Preview done every week.
Live Monthly Masterclass Sessions where you can learn new skills and get your questions answered from Full Focus Coaches.
Live Quarterly Preview Party, which is a live-stream event where we guide you through the Quarterly Preview with expert tips and giveaways.
Online Portal to Log, Track, and Share Goals—so you’ll never lose visibility on your goals again.
Success Community where you can engage with other users and spur each other on to achieve, supported by our Full Focus Team.

Plus, additional exclusive events and resources for Compass members only.

Once you’ve listened to this episode, here’s you next step. Head over to Compass and get started. This is the start of your best year ever!

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#019 How to Avoid Being Overwhelmed by Your Goals Jan 06, 2020

As a high achiever, you probably start every year with a solid list of goals. You’re focused, and you’re ready to achieve. But as time wears on, you realize you can’t keep every project moving at the same rate. By mid-year, you realize it’s too late to make progress on most of your goals.

That’s frustrating! You might even wonder, Am I just trying to do too much? No, you’re not. You don’t have too many goals. And you do have the capacity to achieve them. Just not all at once. We’ve learned the foolproof way to achieve 10 to 12 goals nearly every single year. You do that by focusing on just two or three at any one time. When you do, you’ll plow through them faster than you thought possible.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#018 Help! A Quarterly Preview Seems Overwhelming Dec 30, 2019

High achievers are usually hard chargers. That makes it difficult—even annoying—to slow down for reflection. Who has time?

We know how you feel. That’s why we’ve developed a streamlined method for pausing your work just long enough to make the next phase more productive. It’s called a Quarterly Preview. This simple practice will uncomplicate your life. It is your opportunity to build momentum for the next three months.

We’ve got four compelling reasons to give it a try.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#017 Stop Goal Exhaustion with This Simple Fix Dec 23, 2019

Does it ever feel like you’re on a treadmill? One week ends, another begins. One quarter ends, another begins. You hit your goals this month. Yay! Now get back to work. It never ends.

It’s enough to make you sick of the word goal.

Goal achievement should not be that way. The last thing you should feel about setting a goal is dread. We’ve got a simple hack that will make you feel excited every time you set a goal. Do this one simple thing, and you’ll never again dread the start of the quarter. Here’s how to create a reward that will keep you motivated to achieve.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#016 How to Get Instant Momentum on Goals Dec 16, 2019

You’ve set some great goals. They’re exciting and challenging. But that creates a lot of complexity. There so much to be done. Your project plan is solid, but it’s hard to find the time to make progress. The whole thing just seems overwhelming.

Based on achieving lots of big goals, we’ve learned that complex detailed plans are not always helpful. You don’t need to plot the entire course. All you need is the next step. It’s time to stop thinking about “the plan” for your goal and just identify the next action.

When you do, you’ll get unstuck instantly. The feeling of overwhelm will disappear, and you’ll start seeing daily progress on the things that matter most.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#015 How to Motivate Yourself to Actually Finish Goals Dec 09, 2019

You have a lot of goals and projects in your portfolio. But to be honest, you have a hard time remembering what they are. Sometimes you hope nobody will remind you of them because you can’t really remember why you chose them in the first place. Why is it so hard to maintain your excitement about a goal all year long?

Actually, it’s not! We’ve got a simple way to fuel your passion for goal achievement throughout the year. Do this one simple thing, and you’ll you’ll stop finding goals in June that you forgot about in January. You’ll maintain your excitement, keep your focus, and make progress on your goals all year long.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#014: How to Finish Goals that Drag on Forever Dec 02, 2019

As a high achiever, you love to get things done. But some goals just seem to float out there on the horizon. Some are just hard to start. There’s never a good time to begin. Others, you just can’t finish. Sure, you make progress. But it’s just hard to finish that last 10 percent.

We’ve been there, and we know the solution. You need to make sure every goal has a time key. We’ll show you exactly why that matters so much—and how it will help you finish.

Do this, and you’ll never have trouble getting started on a goal. You’ll always know exactly what your progress is. And, best of all, you’ll know when you’re done!

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#013: How to Create Habit Goals Nov 25, 2019

You want to win at work and succeed at life. But it turns out that changing your life can be a lot harder than achieving goals. You might be able to crank out the work, but going to the gym consistently, or forcing yourself to adopt a morning ritual, or quitting work every day at 5:00 just takes too much will power!

Here’s the thing. Achieving lifestyle goals is not much different than hitting your goals at work. Both goals use the SMARTER framework. But there are certain adjustments you need to make for a habit goal. Your problem isn’t will power. It’s probably that you haven’t created a solid habit goal. And we can show you how.

Start tweaking these three elements of your habit goals, and you’ll crush them every time. You’ll no longer feel stuck in your personal habits. And you’ll make the positive changes that help you win in life as well as at work.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#012: 10 Areas of Life You Must Pay Attention To Nov 18, 2019

Did you ever notice that the harder you push at work, the more out of whack things seem to get at home? Your relationships begin to suffer. You neglect sleep and exercise. Your family starts to complain that “you’re never here.”

Shouldn’t it be possible to win at work and succeed at life?

Actually, it is. We’ll show you how to bring balance to your life by giving attention to each of the 10 life domains—not just your work. When you do this, you’ll begin to feel better right away. And you won’t see any real loss of productivity. In fact, you’ll probably be more productive than ever before.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#011: How to Connect Annual Goals to Daily Productivity Nov 11, 2019

As a high achiever, you love to set big goals. You thrive on strategic planning sessions because it’s a time to dream big.

But daily life is just not conducive to goal achievement. You’re pretty organized, but major goals and projects come on top of your “real job.” It’s hard to make progress on the big things when you’ve got so much other work to do.

Good news: there is one thing that makes you much more likely to achieve your goals. It’s called goal visibility. You’re going to make progress at anything you see or touch every day. So the key is to create consistent points of contact with your most important goals. And we can show you how to do that with three levels of goal review.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#010: Keep Your Focus with This One Tool Nov 04, 2019

We know you want to get stuff done. So you sit down to make some calls, or empty your inbox, or write a report. But before you know it, you’re answering Slack messages and scrolling Instagram. What just happened?

What happened is that you fell into the Palo Alto honey trap. Computer software is specifically designed to grab your attention and hold it. Forever.

But we’ve got a secret weapon. It’s one of the oldest technologies on the planet, and it still works as well as it ever did. It’s called paper! When you start using this time-tested tech to manage your day, you’ll get your brain back. It’ll strengthen your focus muscle,and you’ll finally start getting the right stuff done.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#009: These 3 Beliefs Are Holding You Back Oct 28, 2019

Sometimes it feels like the world is divided into two types of people: super-successful over-achievers, and the rest of us. Why does it seem that other people always get the promotion or double their income or start a new career?

You do have what it takes to be successful. But it’s possible you’re being held back by limiting beliefs. When you identify your limiting beliefs and exchange them for liberating truths, your outlook will change overnight.

In this episode, you’ll learn the three most common types of limiting beliefs—and how to overcome them.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#008: What Separates Good Goals from Bad Goals Oct 21, 2019

You want to achieve big goals. But always seem to get lost in the shuffle of daily life. By the end of the year, most of them are probably still way out of reach. It can be so discouraging.

The problem isn’t you. It’s your goals. Even a good goal can be structured in the wrong way, making it nearly impossible to achieve. But we can fix that for you!

You need SMARTER™ goals. This time-tested framework sets up a game you can win. When you start using this method for goal setting, they’ll practically achieve themselves. You’ll end every quarter amazed at your progress, and the year will end with a celebration.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#007: A Simple (Yet Overlooked) Strategy for Achieving Goals Oct 14, 2019

I know you guys. You’re high achievers. You want to get stuff done. Achieve goals. And celebrate the wins!

To do that, you have downloaded every productivity app ever made. You listened to Michael Hyatt’s tech episode and you’ve got Fantastical running on top of iCal and pulling data from your six Google calendars. You’re wired in with Asana or Basecamp or Nozbe so no task, no matter how small, ever gets missed. You’ve got your master project list in Evernote, hyperlinked to your project plan in Excel. Every project has a completion plan. Every plan has a task list. Every task has a due date. And they all cross linked. You’re wired, Baby!

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#006: How to Get Ahead of Every Week Oct 07, 2019

You really want to love your job. But it can be overwhelming! Work starts coming at you even before you’re in the building by emails and texts. It’s exhausting. There’s got to be a better way to start the week. Here’s help. We’ve got a proven, easy-to-use method for taking control of your week before it starts. Try the Weekly Preview, and you’ll finally quit dreading Mondays! You’ll enter each week freeling relaxed and in control—and you’ll get more done. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#005: The Magic Number for Quarterly Goals Sep 30, 2019

High achievers thrive on setting big goals. The problem is that we create complexity for ourselves, which virtually guarantees getting bogged down. We may achieve one goal but miss ten. It’s discouraging. The problem is that you’re trying to do too much too fast. In this episode, we’ll show you how to narrow your focus to just two or three goals per quarter. When you do, you’ll go from achieving just one or two goals a year, to nailing nearly all of them most of the time. Finally, you can start celebrating wins almost every month. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#004: The Success Formula for Goal Achievement Sep 23, 2019

You want to be a high achiever, but sometimes you feel more like a plate spinner. Between your goal sheet, project management app, daily to-do list, and calendar, you’re managing a lot of details. It’s overwhelming, and something inevitably hits the floor. We’ve got the answer. What you need is not one more app to throw in the mix. You need a system that binds all these elements of productivity together. We call it the Goal Achievement Formula. Try this, and you’ll finally stop feeling like a juggler at work. All of your projects, goals, and tasks will be in alignment. And? You’ll get more done than ever before. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#003: Not Making Progress on Your Goals? Try This Sep 16, 2019

Everybody has big projects or goals they’d like to achieve. The problem is that our “real work” keeps us from making progress on our goals. It’s frustrating to watch your goals slip away, or get sidelined for another year. But that can change! We’ve got a simple hack that will ensure you make progress on your goals every single week. And it really works! It’s time to trade your frustration for achievement. You’ll make huge progress on your goals and end every week feeling on top of your game. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#002: Change Your Mind, Change Your Life Sep 09, 2019

You’re a high achiever, which means you want to get things done! The problem is that no matter how many apps, hacks, and time-management systems you try, you still get caught up in the whirlwind of the modern workplace. It leaves you feeling that something’s wrong with—or missing from—what you’re doing. There is! And we know what it is. You don’t need a new system, hack, or app to make you more productive. You need to change the way you think about productivity and achievement. When you adopt the Full Focus mindset, you’ll instantly go from feeling scattered and overworked to feeling calm, focused, and in control. You’ll escape that feeling that “something’s missing” from your approach to work, and you’ll start to experience a greater level of productivity than you ever thought possible. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#001: Get More Done (By Doing Less) Sep 09, 2019

Everyone wants to be productive at work. But there is just too much to do! Your to-do list grows throughout the day, and you never get finished—no matter how long you work. It’s exhausting. But we’ve got the answer. By narrowing your to-do list, you’ll actually achieve more by doing less. As a result, you’ll escape the sick feeling of always being behind, and you’ll get your most important work done every day. This one change will transform your days from out of control to perfectly focused. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Get Focus! Sep 03, 2019

Start loving Mondays! Each week on Focus on This, Courtney Baker and Blake Stratton give you practical tips and proven strategies for increasing your focus so you can be more productive than ever before. They also speak with guests and listeners who share tips to help you make the most out of every day.

The show launches Monday, September 9th! Make sure you subscribe now and then join us next Monday!

(Until then, you can listen to Lead to Win at http://www.leadto.win.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected