7 Ways Founders Can Increase Focus

Recently I’ve found myself spread too thin.

I’ve taken on more but gotten less done.

Funny how that works, isn’t it?

Whenever I notice this happening I walk through a 7-step checklist to make sure I’m protecting my time.

Here’s what’s on my list:

7 Ways Founders Can Increase Focus

Restrict Your Channels

Switching costs are the hidden killer of productivity.

So I only give people 1 way to reach me where they can expect a response:

Email.

You can call it old school (maybe you prefer SMS or WhatsApp) but, whatever channel you choose, make sure you pick one primary one.

And, critically, be strict about this. If someone asks you to chat through a different medium, it’s ok to push back on it.

You won't be as effective if you're going between 6 or 7 different inboxes every day.

One caveat, I talk to my team in Slack (and that’s where I end up spending most of my day), but for everyone else it’s email or bust.

(Actually) Have a Documentation System

Personally, this is a big weak point for me. I tend to operate in a state of constant chaos.

I just scribble in Apple Notes most of the time.

But I see that as a flaw.

Being organized and documenting things with simple systems in Notion or organizing a team video library in Loom can really save you time.

Often when I feel spread thin, taking a few hours to organize my notes also helps me organize my thoughts and prioritize better.

For founders this is particularly important. You’re going to be the first person doing most things at the company. This is an opportunity to begin building out systems for each of your key functions in as lightweight a way as possible.

However, don't get too bogged down with documentation. Things change often and speed is the most important advantage you have.

Use the Pomodoro Method

I started doing Pomodoros in college and go through phases every year or so where I do them religiously for a couple months.

Here’s how it works:

1. Set aside an uninterrupted amount of time for one task

2. Take a short break

3. Do it again

Some people standardize the amount of time for every task and just see what they get done, taking breaks on a schedule.

It's surprisingly effective at minimizing switching costs. Plus, giving a task your full focus often means you complete it in far less time than you would multi-tasking.

I’m writing this newsletter in one Pomodoro.

Set One Main Goal Each Day

Deep work is sacred.

The night before, determine what your single most important goal of the day is.

Then, set aside a block of time to focus on it and do it.

Most fires don’t actually need to be put out right away. Make sure you’re spending your valuable time on the highest leverage tasks. My framework is:

• Biggest problem

• Highest leverage opportunity

Pick one of the two each day.

Bias to Progress

80% of a good strategy is better than waiting for the remaining 20% to become clear, especially if that means waiting weeks to get anything done.

You’ll learn what actually works and what doesn’t much faster if you get started and then iterate on the strategy over time.

Learn AI & No-Code Tools

In the next decade we’re going to see a 1-person business worth $1 billion.

You don’t need to aim for that, but I’d bet you can get more done (and with lower headcount) by taking the time to think like an engineer and look for tools that can help you build faster.

I’ll put together a list of my favorites in an upcoming post.

Most startups will need to transition away from no-code tools as they grow (I’m currently going through this with Megaphone, but the speed you gain early on by starting with them (especially if you're not an engineer) is worth it.

Start Saying “No”

Say no to your friends. Say no to your team. Say no to your investors.

No one cares as much or knows as much about your startup as you.

As it grows, a never-ending parade of demands on your time are bound to come. You must learn to say no (even to good opportunities). A lack of focus can ruin everything.

What founders forget is that most people assume they are busy, and won't take offense to getting told no. Here's what to do when you reply:

• Be courteous → Thank them for reaching out and let them know that what they're reaching out about looks interesting.

• Be upfront → Let them know you're heads down on something right now. Recruiting, growth, etc.

• Offer them an alternative → If you're too busy for a meeting, ask them to record a Loom or send an email with the specific things they'd like to discuss.