Maintain focus through the busy holiday season

How did we get to the first week of December already? 

If you’re like me, you’re looking at the free time on your calendar slipping away. 

Between end-of-year work commitments, deadlines, family responsibilities, and likely a few more social gatherings and holiday parties than usual… It’s definitely that time of the year, right?

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you’re juggling multiple things, and you’re trying to get it all done…and somehow it can still feel like nothing gets done. 

You’re not alone. I can relate; before baby Ari came along, this time of year was hectic, and now? It’s a whole new can of worms. The addition of Ari has been a gift, but what I didn’t anticipate is all the household tasks that pile up, and the new responsibilities I have as a new dad – between diaper changes, late nights when he can’t sleep, and more diaper changes… You get the point – you’ve likely been here before.

Many of you have told me that this time goes by so fast as a new dad, enjoy every moment, and take lots of photos. (that I certainly have).

And of course, while you’re in it, as a new parent, it can definitely feel overwhelming, being pulled in every direction can make staying focused really hard to do, and that “to-do list” just keeps getting longer. It’s hard to know what is top priority.

All of this to say, when stressors seem to weigh you down, staying focused can feel like an uphill battle…I know now more than ever, and that’s why today I wanted to share something with you that’s been helping me each day.

Here are some simple tips I’ve learned along the way to help maintain focus despite constant distractions:

Acknowledge and name your stressors

What’s causing your distraction? Name the stress and write it down (e.g., “I’m worried about a deadline”). This can make it feel more manageable and less overwhelming.

Practice focused “box breathing”

A useful mindfulness tool I’ve started our client group calls with, to recenter and refocus your breathing, body, and mind. Try it: set a 2-minute timer for deep breathing exercises first thing in the morning, at lunchtime, or before you sleep:

• Inhale deeply for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, and exhale for 6 seconds. Repeat this cycle for 2 minutes.
• This helps reduce stress hormones and brings your attention back to the present.

Prioritize tasks

It does NOT all need to get done yesterday. Stress will often scatter your focus. Write down your tasks, rank them in priority or colour code, and tackle the most important ones first. This can help you regain control of what’s important and top of mind to you.

Break it down

Stress can make big tasks seem and feel impossible. Break your work into small chunks and actionable steps, and focus on completing one at a time.

Use a timer

The Pomodoro Technique (e.g., 25 minutes of focused work, 2 minutes of rest or movement, and repeat for 4 rounds) can help you push through mental clutter. Knowing you have a break coming can reduce the pressure.  Very similar to strength training and getting your reps in at the gym. 

Offload the stress

Write down your worries, challenges, and thoughts in a notebook or journal (let that SH*T GO, especially before bed). This externalizes stress and frees up mental clutter to concentrate.

Create a focused environment

Eliminate any physical distractions like desk clutter. I like to have a tidy desk, put my phone away, silence notifications, and sometimes use noise-cancelling headphones. A clean, calm environment helps reduce mental noise and clutter.

Get moving

Take a 5-minute walk, stretch, or do some light exercises/stretches to break up your work; movement snacks, I like to call them, throughout your day (aside from your workout). Physical movement helps release stress and refresh your focus.

Set boundaries around stressful thoughts

Practice saying, “Not now,” and remind yourself that you can deal with the stressor later, but must focus on the task you’re currently working on.

Ask for help

If the stress is significant, talk to someone or seek professional advice (like a therapist). Sharing burdens often lightens them.

Be kind to yourself

Realize it’s okay to have moments of distraction, especially this time of year. Keep the focus on small wins each day and week, coming back to consistency, not perfection – it doesn’t exist. 

Try out one or a couple of these tips over December, they will help you manage stress while still making progress on your priorities to finish off this year STRONG.

Stay Healthy,