Don’t let the little things stop you from making any real progress. Here’s how interim managers stay focused in the midst of it all.

Responding to a swarm of emails, getting buried in office politics or updating investors are some of the many things that take away focus from business leaders today. Because they spend so much time catching up, they are unable to focus on big-picture stuff and long-term planning. This can lead many to feel like they’ve accomplished nothing at the end of the week.

Interim managers turn off notifications

Set 2-3 hours aside every day to work exclusively on your business. Let everybody in the office know not to disturb you unless there’s an emergency and turn off notifications on your phone.

Interim managers create lists

One good way to stay focused is by creating lists of all that you want to accomplish during the week and breaking big items into micro-goals that are easier to do. Put that list in a place that is constantly visible to you like a whiteboard, or on the mini-fridge in your office or as your phone’s screensaver. That way you will always be reminded of what you need to do.

Interim managers exercise

A walk around the block or a quick yoga session is a great way to clear your head. It allows you to take a break and reorient your agenda. Ryan Holmes, founder of Hootsuite, says, “Like lots of entrepreneurs, my attention is always pulled in a dozen directions at once. The one thing that really helps me stay focused is exercise. After I jog, do yoga or get out and do some backcountry skiing, I always come back with more clarity and focus.”

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