I was reading Chris Brogan's newsletter recently and he referenced a great tool that I am now using.  It's a downloadable egg timer.  Basically, you set up the amount of time you want it to count down and it will do that until it reaches the end and then it makes a sound of your choosing (I chose "Yabba Dabba Do!")

So what I do when I want to stay focused is that I start the timer for about 30 minute intervals.  Then I get down to the task at hand (a specific task).  This week, I'm updating my popular First Time Homebuyer Seminar.  I don't stop working on it for anything (calls, people, emails, etc.) until the timer goes off.  It's stunning how much you can get done in a half an hour.  Last time, I outlined all the things I would have to do to update all of my products and to pick out a new fulfillment company.  It's crazy effective.

Try it out for yourself:

Egg Timer Windows Version

Egg Timer Mac Version

Oh, and don't forget to make your $5 donation.  I guarantee that using this program will yield you more than $5 in return.

Enjoy!

 
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8 Comments on Getting More Done - Staying Focused

JUL
20
135,477 Points

Kelle, this is great. I have been using a kitchen timer to help keep me on track. The only issue is that I hear it ticking and that causes a little distraction.  Thanks for sharing.

2:54pm • #1

neat idea- I might try that.  each time I try that, I find myself needing to open Outlook for somrthing while working and bam- off target....

3:13pm • #2

Kelle, sounds nifty. Thanks you so much for sharing. I will definitely try it. Have a super week ahead.

3:22pm • #3
148,759 Points 6 Featured Posts Outside Blog

I believe in time budgeting.

But I don't think I can do the egg timer thing!

4:42pm • #5
JUL
23
113,648 Points 7 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor

Kelly - this is a great idea!  I, too, get distracted by my kitchen timer.  I'm going to feature this in my next Tuesday Tech Tips post!  (I'll give you and Chris some credit though!)  Thanks again for bringing this to our attention.

~Renae

7:46am • #6
JUL
26

     A great idea, Kelle! I plan to try it tomorrow. But first I have to clear out some of my Inbox. Spending 3 days in the hospital setme behind! Make it a great week!

10:49pm • #7
OCT
09

Great advise since I'm having one of those get nothing done days.

3:04pm • #8

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Kelle Sparta, Real Estate Trainer and Coach

Cambridge, MA

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