I have a love-hate relationship with the phrase "I tried everything".

I have a love-hate relationship with the phrase "I tried everything".
Love: It's an incredible standard in pursuit of life's important stuff.
Hate: Most people use the phrase, but quit too soon.

I've gone to great lengths to improve focus and eliminate distractions.
So, I compiled my highlights.
The most impactful stuff.

This isn't a generic, internet listicle or AI slop.
It's the stuff I've tried, tested, and rely on regularly.

I omitted my rationale for each item,
but comment or DM if you wanna dive deeper.

Notifications are Distractions
• Keep Do Not Disturb on at all times.
• Use 'Favorites' feature on iPhone for key people.
• Disable notifications on all devices (watch, phone, laptop).
• Disable all sounds, beeps, and rings.
• Remove red badges and notification counts.

Routine & Energy
• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
• Start and end work at set times.
• Work from one primary location 95% of the time.
• Move daily through stretching, walking, or workouts.
• Review weekly what worked, what didn’t, and what’s still open.
• Complete "closing sessions", for browser tabs, programs, and tasks.
• Stay aligned with spouse on where and when you’re needed.

Plan & Prioritize: Clarity first, then execution
• Delegate repetitive tasks to an assistant.
• Set weekly intentions with a clear picture of deliverables and success.
• Clear the plate daily to reset priorities.
• Block focused work time on the calendar.
• Protect multi-hour, meeting-free windows.
• Schedule full GSD (get sh!t done) days for uninterrupted progress.

Communication Channels: Separate signal from noise
• Use Slack for internal communication.
• Use email for external communication.
• Reply within 24 hours.
• Maintain a zero-ish inbox.
• Include reply window in email signature.
• Set boundaries and expectations with family and roommates.

Physical Space: Environment supports attention
• Maintain reliable Wi-Fi with backup connection.
• Work from a dedicated, private workspace.
• Minimize visual and audio distractions.
• Use over-ear, noise-canceling headphones.
• Optimize ergonomic setup (desk, chair, screen).
• Maintain consistent, natural lighting.
• Regulate temperature and airflow for comfort.
• Keep essential tools within arm’s reach.
• Ensure easy restroom access.

Digital Space: Cut better with sharper tools
• Manage all tasks in Asana.
• Take notes exclusively in Notion.
• Hold meetings on Zoom.
• Secure credentials in 1Password.
• Separate work and personal browsing personas, via The Browser Company.
• Use async tools for collaboration (Loom and Miro).

Smart Defaults: Reduce decision fatigue
• Wear one outfit.
• Rotate between three, delivered lunch options.
• Define default "yeses" (ex. When a friend asks something).
• Define default "nos" (ex. My kids' friends birthday party at 2pm Tues).
• Define monthly budget for learning and "system upgrades".
• Use pen and paper for weekly, offline brain dumps.

Death occurs by 1,000 cuts, victory by a 1,000 small wins.