In today’s fast-moving, always-connected world, it’s easy to feel pulled in a million directions. There’s a constant flood of notifications, emails, and distractions fighting for our attention. No wonder it’s tough to stay focused.

You might have heard that our attention span has dropped to just 8 seconds; that’s shorter than a goldfish’s! (A 2015 Microsoft study found this decline was likely due to our digital lifestyles.) When our attention is scattered, it’s hard to make real progress. We end up bouncing from one thing to the next, skimming the surface instead of going deep. It’s like tossing a skipping stone across a lake; touching down here and there but never fully diving in.

That’s where practicing presence comes in. Being fully engaged in the moment, whether it’s a conversation, a project, or a walk outside, can help us focus, feel more in control, and actually get things done.

Why Being Present Boosts Productivity

1. You Get More Done (Without Feeling Scattered)
   When you focus on just one thing at a time, you make fewer mistakes and finish faster. No more half-done projects or redoing work because you weren’t paying attention.
2. Less Stress, More Calm
   Being present keeps your mind from spiraling into regrets about the past or worries about the future. You deal with what’s in front of you, and that’s it. That kind of clarity can be a game-changer for stress levels.
3. Stronger Relationships
   When you really listen—without thinking about your next meeting or checking your phone—you build better connections. People can tell when you’re fully engaged, and it makes a difference; personally and professionally.
4. More Creativity & Better Problem-Solving
   Ever notice how your best ideas come when you’re truly focused? Whether it’s brainstorming or tackling a tough problem, presence helps you think clearly and creatively. It’s no wonder we have moments of brilliance while in the shower – no distractions!

How to Practice Presence in Daily Life & Work

• Use a Timer
  Try the Pomodoro Technique. Work in focused bursts (like 25 minutes), then take a short break. Knowing a timer is running keeps you locked in (we love the TimeTimer – no affiliate relationship).
• Be Mindful on Walks
  Instead of zoning out or scrolling your phone, notice what’s around you; the sounds, the breeze, your footsteps. It’s a simple way to train your brain to stay present. Chanel your “childhood Debbie” (that’s me at age 2 in the photo) and be sure to stop and smell the roses. It’s productive!
• Try Meditation
  Even a few minutes a day strengthens your ability to stay focused and in the moment. It’s like a workout for your attention span.
• Use a Reminder Object
  Keep something nearby—a bracelet, a sticky note, a small rock in your pocket—that reminds you to check in with the present moment. When you see or touch it, think: Right now, I’m…
• Single-Task Instead of Multi-Tasking
  Do one thing, and actually think about it while you’re doing it. Multi-tasking might feel productive, but it usually just splits your attention and slows you down.
• Turn Off Notifications & Minimize Interruptions
  If your phone is buzzing every few minutes, it’s pulling you out of the present. Turn off non-essential notifications and set boundaries around your focus time.
• Clear Clutter
  A messy space can be a distraction magnet. Keeping your work area simple helps your brain stay on track.
• Have a Trusted Task Management System
  Ever get a random idea in the middle of a focused task? Instead of jumping to it, jot it down somewhere you trust (a notes app, planner, or task list). That way, you won’t lose it, but you can stay present with what you’re doing now.

What’s next?

Practicing presence isn’t about being perfect. It’s about making small shifts that help you stay engaged with what matters most. Try out a few of these strategies and see how much more you get done; without feeling overwhelmed.

We’re exploring the topic of Focus in our It’s About Time membership group this month. For a fraction of the cost of private coaching (also a great return on investment and customized help), it could be just what you need to finally have time for what matters most. Join us! Isn’t it “About Time”?