By JOHNNY CARCIOPPOLO / Community Columnist

In our lives today, we are busier than ever before. We think technology has streamlined many tasks, but instead we are given more tools that give us more and more to do with less time to do it. We are stressed and overwhelmed. The phrase “time management” has become taboo, since it implies there are different ways to cram even more into our already overflowing lives.

We have been led to believe that if we don’t multitask every minute of our day, we will not be productive. This can’t be farther from the truth. Successful people have long realized that focus is the key to being productive.

Most of what we say and do is not essential. If you can eliminate it, you’ll have more time, and more tranquility. Ask yourself at every moment, ‘Is this necessary?’ Increasing your focus means you should get up each day, looking forward to what you can achieve. Being focused means you are making progress toward what is most important to you. You will feel a greater sense of productivity and fulfillment.

Learn why focus is important in both your personal and professional life in the following pages. You’ll learn tips and strategies on gaining and keeping your focus so you can be productive in everything you do. Multitasking is one of the most overrated skills people claim to have. In this report you’ll find out why you shouldn’t be multitasking, and what to do instead.

The strategies for becoming more focused are endless. Make lists. Remove distractions. Set up your ideal environment. You need to find what works best for your style of working.