In the manufacturing economy, time was the currency. Systems were designed for maximum efficiency and effectiveness was simply measured by how much time could be dedicated to the process. The assembly line was the perfect example of this.  In today’s information environment, knowledge is critical and attention is the currency.  Directing our attention in the right places and for the right amount of time is the key to effectiveness. 

I created the checklist below for you to do a self assessment.    

□ You are frequently distracted from your current activity by others or your own lack of focus

□ You finish your day surprised by how little you actually accomplished despite the fact that you felt busy all day (i.e. You were on the phone “all day” but the phone report shows that you barely cracked two hours!)

□ You have a to do list of important items but always seem to be distracted by more “urgent” activities