When I played college soccer, staying focused was almost second nature. Life was simpler, with fewer responsibilities and distractions beyond academics and sports. Yet, the habits and routines I developed during those training days continue to serve me well in the business world. Here are three essential practices that help me maintain discipline and productivity.
Be Fully Present in the Moment
During my soccer career, being 100% present on the field was crucial. Distractions had no place during training or matches; otherwise, my performance would suffer. The same principle applies in business. When I’m working on a project, I commit fully to the task at hand. This focus means eliminating interruptions and resisting the urge to multitask.
To maintain this level of engagement, I make a conscious effort to separate work from downtime. When I take breaks or finish my day, I can shift gears, but during work hours, I’m all-in. Developing this habit has been key to delivering high-quality results consistently.
Schedule Focused Time
In college, our practice sessions were scheduled—non-negotiable blocks of time dedicated to improvement. This structure made it easier to stay disciplined. As an adult, it’s easy to lose that sense of routine. However, I’ve found that scheduling focused work time on my calendar is just as effective.
Blocking time for deep work not only ensures productivity but also sets clear expectations with my team and others. When my focused time is protected, I know I can give my best effort without interruptions. This practice is a game-changer for maintaining momentum and making progress.
Define Your Outcome and “Why”
In soccer, I had a clear purpose: to win championships and become the best player I could be. This “why” drove me to show up and push through tough days, even when motivation waned. Business is no different. Knowing my desired outcomes and the reasons behind my work keeps me moving forward.
Feelings are fleeting and unreliable motivators. Instead, I focus on the bigger picture. What do I want to accomplish? What’s the impact of my work? These answers serve as a constant reminder to persevere when challenges arise. Keeping my “why” front and center has been instrumental in navigating the ups and downs of business life.
Final Thoughts: Discipline Transcends the Field
These three practices—being fully present, scheduling focused time, and knowing my outcome—have consistently helped me stay disciplined in business. They’re straightforward yet powerful habits that anyone can adopt.
How will you incorporate these principles into your daily routine to improve focus and productivity?