8 ways to improve focus in 2025

With the constant barrage of notifications, endless to-do lists and competing priorities, staying focused isn't always easy, but we can make it easier on ourselves. Firstly, we need to remember the ability to focus isn't just a natural talent – it's a skill that can be enhanced through different techniques and strategies.

Returning from the holiday break can be tricky as we try to return to our rhythm of work and play. This is an excellent time to try out methods of focus that are tried and true. Bear in mind there's no 'one size fits all' for these methods of focus, as what will suit you will come down to how you think and work best. When it doubt, test a few out and see how you feel.

Without further ado here are eight practical approaches that can help you reclaim your concentration and help you tackle your to-do list.

Time tracking

With a clear idea of how long different tasks take, you can map out your day according to how you work best - be that to get the time intensive work done first thing or later in the day.

Task batching

Group similar tasks together to tackle it all at once. This can help you to get in the zone and stay there.

Eat the frog

It’s tempting to do the easiest thing first, but before you know it your focus and energy is gone. Start at your most complex task and work your way down, one bite at a time.

Smallest first

Opposite to ‘eat the frog’ is to take away that daunting sensation of having to get started. Start with the smallest step you can take, put the rest out of your mind.

Energy mapping

This is completely about you. Take a few days out of the week and note down your most productive times. Lean into this and work to your strengths.

Pomodoro method

This well-known method is all about time. You allocate a specific amount of time for work and breaks and work to this.

Flowtime

The opposite of the Pomodoro method is to take a task at a time and not stop until it’s done. Clear away all distractions, set your sights on the finish line and go.

Eisenhower matrix

What is actually your most important task? This matrix categorises your tasks into four quadrants according to how urgent and important they are so you can prioritise effectively.

Find your rhythm

Finding your perfect focus strategy can take time but the rewards are worth the effort. Start small, be consistent, and watch as your productivity grows. Not only for your New Year's productivity goals, these techniques can help you work smarter, not harder throughout the year. Here's to sharper focus and better work-life balance in 2025!