As I write this, I’m on a long plane ride — and oddly enough, this is one of my favorite places to write. Despite the slight turbulence and cramped space, I find it easier to focus here than almost anywhere else.
Why? Because the distractions are limited.
I don’t buy in-flight Wi-Fi. I deliberately choose to disconnect. My options narrow: I can read, watch a film, nap, or write. That’s about it. And the simplicity of choice creates clarity of mind.
Why Simplicity Leads to Focus
Compare that to life on the ground — at home or at work — where we have endless options at our fingertips. Our phones buzz, browsers beckon, apps whisper promises of productivity. But instead of doing more, we scatter ourselves across dozens of tasks, rarely giving anything our full attention.
This is where monks offer an unexpected lesson.
Monastic life is built on intentional simplicity. Monks don’t have endless tabs open in their minds. Their days are structured around a small number of purposeful activities: prayer, meditation, writing, cleaning, eating. No rushing, no multi-tasking, no switching back and forth.
Their limited choices are not a constraint — they are a gateway to pristine focus.
The Power of Doing One Thing
Imagine this: you sit down and choose one thing to focus on. Not five, not even two — just one.
You set a timer for 10 or 30 minutes.
And you commit.
No switching tabs. No checking messages. No “just a quick look” at your phone. Only you and this single task.
Discomfort will arise. The itch to pivot will come. But if you stay with it — if you return to your breath, stretch for a moment, and gently return your attention — you’re training your mind for deep focus.
It’s not always easy. But like a muscle, focus strengthens with use.
Over time, your work becomes calmer. You move through your day with more impact and less chaos. The practice of doing one thing well begins to transform everything.
Designing a Life That Supports Focus
Pristine focus isn’t just about willpower — it’s about design. Structure supports attention.
When your day has a rhythm, it’s easier to give each moment your full presence. If it’s time to write — write. If it’s time to meditate — don’t negotiate, just sit.
Start by identifying the areas in your life where you want this kind of presence. A few possibilities:
- A meaningful project
- Movement or exercise
- Email (yes, even this can be intentional)
- Budgeting or finances
- A creative pursuit
- Journaling or self-reflection
- Meditation or prayer
- Reading without interruption
- Practicing music or craft
Now give these activities their own protected space on your calendar.
Don’t try to plan every minute — leave 25–35% of your time open for rest, spontaneity, or the unexpected. Focus needs breathing room.
Then, when it’s time — trust the schedule you created. Let it guide you into focused, devoted practice. Let your structure become a quiet form of discipline, a gentle ritual of attention.
In the End, It’s About Devotion
Pristine focus isn’t about being perfect. It’s about returning — again and again — to what matters most.
Like a monk on a mountaintop or a writer on a plane, you can choose less… and in doing so, access so much more.
