Originally shared via email. For early access to UN job search success tips and advice, subscribe to the newsletter here.

I’m back!

I’ve had a lovely time disconnecting, and now I'm here, back at work – attempting to capture that elusive focus.

To be honest, there’s a part of me that still wishes I were lounging in the hammock, gazing up at the dappled light through rustling leaves...

Back to work. Focus.

If that's you too, I'd like to share a favorite strategy to snap my mind into gear: gamifying it.

It's super simple:

1. Set a timer for 3 minutes (5 tops, if you must)
2. Focus on doing your thing for those minutes
3. Stop when the timer goes off - no exception

"Done in 3 minutes? You must be kidding?!" you might say. "I've got SOOO MUCH to get done."

I know, but keeping it super short, and cutting yourself off when time's up are the two keys to help your brain treat it like a game. You can go back after a 5-minute break, but you have to take the break!

It’s a tiny nudge, and it works.

If you’re ready to get back into action and want career support, a second set of eyes on your next application, or prepping for an interview, I’m here. My August and September times are available for all my services:
https://www.koachr.global/services

PS. This little time trick works just as well if you tend to get stuck doomscrolling job boards. Give yourself a parameter (a keyword, a location, an organization), set a time limit (10 minutes is a good aim, never more than 25), then close the tab and walk away.