Focus Friday: Self-Care Through Subtraction

Self-care isn’t just about treating yourself 🌿—sometimes it’s about giving yourself permission to release what no longer serves you ➖. This week, think about what you can subtract ⏳💸🧘‍♀️ for your well-being 🌻.

When we think of self-care, we often imagine adding things to our routine: spa days, new skincare products, or hobbies. But what if self-care could also mean subtracting something? Sometimes, letting go of habits, obligations, or even small luxuries can be just as beneficial.

Take this personal example: For decades, I was always on top of having my toes painted. It was something I enjoyed and took pride in. Then, life changed—kids, work, and expenses took priority, and that regular pedicure became both financially impractical and time-consuming. One day, I decided: my toes don’t need to be painted. It was a small decision that saved me money, time, and mental energy. No one else cared what my toes looked like, and suddenly, I had one less thing to worry about.

This is what I call self-care through subtraction. Instead of asking, “What can I add to make myself feel better?” try asking, “What can I let go of to make my life simpler?”

Here are a few areas to explore subtraction as a form of self-care:

  1. Social Media Time: Scrolling endlessly or feeling the need to post regularly can drain our energy. Reducing time spent online can make room for more meaningful in-person connections.
  2. Over-scheduling: Sometimes we fill our days with activities and commitments out of habit or guilt. What happens if you say “no” more often or keep weekends free?
  3. Chores and Aesthetic Pressures: Like my example with painted toes, many of us feel pressure to maintain appearances in ways that aren’t necessary. What can you let go of—whether it’s a perfectly manicured lawn, flawless makeup, or an impeccably tidy house?
  4. Emotional Load: Let go of carrying unnecessary emotional weight from relationships that no longer serve you or responsibilities that aren’t truly yours to carry.

Self-care isn’t just about treating yourself—sometimes it’s about giving yourself permission to release what no longer serves you. So, this week, think about what you can subtract for your well-being.

What’s one thing you can let go of to create more space for yourself? Let me know in the comments below!

Ready to get started on your Focus Journey? Grab a time slot to have a free Focus Call with me below! 👇

Focus Friday: Being Present

In today’s fast-paced world, we’ve become masters of multitasking. Whether juggling emails at work, keeping up with our children, or even scrolling through our phones while catching up with friends, our attention is often divided. But what if we shifted from trying to do everything to focusing on just one thing? When we’re truly present, we can create more meaningful connections, enhance our work quality, and increase our overall well-being. Let’s dive into some ideas for staying in the moment with different areas of our lives:

1. With Friends

Put your phone away during meals or conversations. Try making eye contact and really listening to what’s being said, instead of thinking about what you’ll say next. A great trick is to reflect on what they say before responding—it helps you stay engaged and show that you value their words.

2. With Family

Dedicate time for uninterrupted family moments. Whether it’s board game night, cooking together, or even a tech-free walk outside, these shared experiences help strengthen bonds. It’s not about the time you spend but the quality of that time.

3. At Work

Resist the urge to respond to every notification the moment it appears. Instead, block out time to focus on one task at a time. Try using the Pomodoro Technique (25 minutes of work followed by a 5-minute break – click here for my full post on that technique!🍅) to help train your brain to focus.

4. With Our Children

Children thrive when they feel seen and heard. Even just 10 minutes of uninterrupted playtime or conversation can make a huge difference. Try turning off distractions like TV or social media and give them your full attention. This not only helps their development but also nurtures your relationship.

5. Avoiding Multitasking

It can be tempting to multitask, but studies show it can reduce productivity and increase stress. Instead, focus on one task at a time. If your mind starts to wander, gently remind yourself to come back to the present moment.

Practical Tip: The “Five Senses” Grounding Technique

One way to bring yourself back into the moment is by using your senses. Take a pause and notice:

  • 5 things you can see,
  • 4 things you can touch,
  • 3 things you can hear,
  • 2 things you can smell, and
  • 1 thing you can taste.

This exercise helps ground you and refocuses your attention.

Being present isn’t always easy, especially when we’re pulled in so many directions, but even small changes in how we approach our time can make a huge impact. Whether it’s a heartfelt conversation with a friend or giving your child undivided attention for a few minutes, those moments matter.

Take things one step at a time, and remember that it’s okay to start small. Pick one area of your life where you’d like to practice being present, and make it a goal this week. Over time, you’ll notice the difference in how you feel and the deeper connections you build with others.

You’ve got this! 🌟 Here’s to embracing the present moment and creating more meaningful experiences. Keep showing up fully, and watch how it transforms your day-to-day life. 💫

Ready to get started on your Focus Journey? Grab a time slot to have a free Focus Call with me below! 👇

Focus Friday: Mindful Multitasking

Picture this: You’re trying to finish a work email, but at the same time, you’ve got laundry piling up, dinner to prep, and kids needing your attention. You dive into multitasking mode, jumping from one thing to the next. At the end of the day, you’re left exhausted, but somehow, it feels like nothing actually got done. Sound familiar? If you’re someone who deals with ADHD or struggles with focus, this cycle of chaotic multitasking can be particularly draining. But what if there was a way to manage multiple tasks without feeling overwhelmed?

That’s where mindful multitasking comes in. Instead of trying to do everything at once, we can focus on doing the right things, in the right combinations, with intention.

The Myth of Multitasking:
Multitasking has long been seen as a skill to strive for, but here’s the truth: it’s not as productive as we think. Our brains aren’t built to handle multiple complex tasks at the same time. What we’re really doing is rapidly switching between tasks, which actually slows us down, increases the risk of errors, and leads to mental fatigue.

The Impact on Focus:
For those of us with ADHD or focus challenges, this constant task-switching can feel like mental “whiplash.” It can create a scattered, chaotic energy that leaves you feeling drained without any real sense of accomplishment. The more we try to juggle everything, the more scattered our focus becomes.

Introducing Mindful Multitasking:
Instead of trying to handle unrelated tasks all at once, mindful multitasking encourages us to pair tasks that complement each other. This approach allows us to stay present and engaged while still being productive. For example, you might listen to a podcast while folding laundry or do some light stretching while you’re on a conference call.

Mindful multitasking is about being intentional with your time and energy, not spreading yourself thin.

How to Implement It:

  1. Choose Complementary Tasks: Pair a physical task with a mental one, like folding laundry while listening to an educational podcast. This prevents overwhelm and lets your mind stay engaged without bouncing between unrelated activities.
  2. Set Time Blocks: Instead of trying to do everything at once, set time blocks for focused work. Spend 20–30 minutes on one task before switching. This helps reduce the constant mental switching and allows for deeper focus.
  3. Take Breaks to Reset: Between tasks, take a few moments to reset your mind. Whether it’s a quick stretch or a deep breath, breaks help recharge your focus.
  4. Practice Self-Compassion: Accept that not everything can be done at once—and that’s okay. Mindful multitasking isn’t about perfection; it’s about working smarter, not harder.

Multitasking can feel like a necessary evil in our busy lives, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By practicing mindful multitasking, you can reduce chaos and increase focus, allowing you to feel more present and productive throughout your day.

Ready to get started on your Focus Journey? Grab a time slot to have a free Focus Call with me below! 👇

Focus Friday: Understanding Time Blindness

Time blindness is a common experience for many, especially those with ADHD, but it’s a concept that often goes unrecognized. Understanding time blindness, how to recognize it, and ways to manage it can lead to significant improvements in daily life. Let’s delve into what time blindness is and how to navigate it effectively.

What is Time Blindness?

Time blindness refers to the inability to accurately perceive the passage of time. For some, time may seem to stretch endlessly, while for others, it seems to slip away unnoticed. This can lead to chronic lateness, difficulty meeting deadlines, or feeling overwhelmed by tasks that seem to take longer than expected.

How to Recognize Time Blindness

Recognizing time blindness is the first step in addressing it. Here are some signs that may indicate you or someone you know is experiencing time blindness:

  1. Chronic Lateness: Frequently arriving late to appointments, meetings, or events despite intending to be on time.
  2. Underestimating Time Required: Consistently underestimating how long tasks will take, leading to rushed work or incomplete tasks.
  3. Overcommitting: Taking on more tasks than can be realistically completed in a given timeframe due to a poor sense of time.
  4. Difficulty Tracking Time: Losing track of time easily, especially when engaged in activities that are either highly stimulating or uninteresting.
  5. Relying on Last-Minute Pressure: Frequently relying on the adrenaline rush of last-minute pressure to complete tasks.

Steps to Avoid or Improve Patterns of Behavior

While time blindness can be challenging, there are strategies that can help improve time management and reduce its impact on daily life:

  1. Use Timers and Alarms:
    • Setting multiple alarms or using timers can provide external reminders of the passage of time. This can be especially helpful for tasks that require sustained focus.
  2. Time Blocking:
    • Break your day into blocks of time dedicated to specific tasks. This helps in visualizing how your time is being spent and ensures that important tasks are allocated sufficient time.
  3. Estimate and Double:
    • When planning tasks, estimate how long you think it will take and then double that time. This allows for a buffer and helps prevent underestimating the time required.
  4. Create Visual Timelines:
    • Use visual aids like calendars, planners, or digital tools that display tasks and deadlines in a clear, easy-to-read format. Seeing your day or week laid out visually can help in better time management.
  5. Prioritize Tasks:
    • Focus on completing high-priority tasks first. This ensures that essential tasks are accomplished even if time does slip away later in the day.
  6. Account for Transitions:
    • Build in time between tasks to account for transitions. Moving from one task to another often takes more time than anticipated, and accounting for this can prevent falling behind.
  7. Routine Check-Ins:
    • Set regular check-ins throughout the day to assess your progress. This can help in catching time blindness in action and allow for adjustments to your plan as needed.
  8. Seek Support:
    • If time blindness is significantly impacting your life, consider seeking support from a coach or therapist. They can help develop personalized strategies and provide accountability.

Time blindness can be a frustrating experience, but with the right strategies, it is possible to manage its effects and improve time management skills. By recognizing the signs, implementing effective tools, and adjusting your approach, you can take control of your time and reduce the stress and anxiety often associated with time blindness.

Ready to get started on your Focus Journey? Grab a time slot to have a free Focus Call with me below! 👇

Focus Friday: Move to Focus – How Physical Activity Calms the Mind and Sharpens Your Focus

In a world that constantly demands our attention, staying focused can feel like a never-ending challenge—especially if you’re someone who struggles with distractibility or ADHD. But here’s a secret weapon that’s often overlooked: movement. Yes, moving your body is one of the most effective ways to calm your mind and increase your focus. Let’s explore why physical activity is so powerful and how you can incorporate it into your routine to enhance your mental clarity.

The Science Behind Movement and Focus

When we move our bodies, something amazing happens in our brains. Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, delivering oxygen and nutrients that enhance cognitive function. This boost in blood flow helps to clear out brain fog, making it easier to concentrate and stay on task.

Exercise also triggers the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin—chemicals that play a crucial role in attention, mood regulation, and overall mental well-being. For people with ADHD, in particular, these neurotransmitters are often in short supply, making it harder to focus. Movement can help to replenish these chemicals, leading to improved focus and a calmer mind.

How Movement Calms the Mind

Movement isn’t just about physical health; it’s also about mental peace. When you engage in physical activity, your body releases endorphins, often referred to as “feel-good” hormones. These endorphins act as natural stress relievers, helping to reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm.

Additionally, physical activity can serve as a form of mindfulness. Whether it’s a walk in the park, a yoga session, or a dance class, moving your body forces you to be present in the moment, focusing on the here and now rather than the whirlwind of thoughts in your mind. This mindfulness aspect of movement is key to reducing mental clutter and fostering a sense of tranquility.

Incorporating Movement into Your Day

You don’t need to spend hours at the gym to reap the benefits of movement. Here are some simple ways to incorporate physical activity into your daily routine:

  1. Morning Stretch: Start your day with a few minutes of stretching. This not only wakes up your muscles but also sets a calm tone for the day ahead.
  2. Walk It Out: Take short breaks throughout your day to go for a walk. Whether it’s a quick stroll around the block or a longer walk in nature, walking can help clear your mind and boost your focus.
  3. Desk Exercises: If you’re stuck at your desk, try simple exercises like seated leg lifts, shoulder shrugs, or even standing and stretching. These small movements can make a big difference in how you feel.
  4. Dance Breaks: Crank up your favorite tunes and have a mini dance party! Dancing is a fun way to get your body moving and your energy flowing.
  5. Evening Yoga: Wind down your day with some gentle yoga or stretching. This not only helps release any tension built up during the day but also prepares your mind and body for a restful night’s sleep.

The Long-Term Benefits of Movement

The more you make movement a part of your routine, the more you’ll notice its positive effects on your focus and mental clarity. Regular physical activity can help regulate your mood, reduce anxiety, and improve your ability to concentrate on tasks. Over time, you’ll find that your mind feels calmer, more centered, and better equipped to handle whatever challenges come your way.

So, the next time you’re feeling scattered or overwhelmed, remember: sometimes the best way to focus your mind is to move your body. Whether it’s a walk, a stretch, or a dance, find what works for you and make it a regular part of your day. Your mind will thank you!

Ready to get started on your Focus Journey? Grab a time slot to have a free Focus Call with me below! 👇

Focus Friday: Body Doubling

Harnessing the Power of Body Doubling for Improved Focus

Welcome back to another Focus Friday! Today, we’re diving into a powerful strategy for enhancing concentration and productivity, especially for those who find themselves easily distracted: body doubling.

What is Body Doubling?

Body doubling is a technique where one person (the “body double”) works alongside another, providing a form of passive accountability. The presence of someone else can help maintain focus and reduce distractions. This method is particularly effective for individuals with ADHD or those who struggle with staying on task due to environmental or internal distractions.

How Does Body Doubling Work?

The concept behind body doubling is simple yet effective. When someone is present with you while you work, their presence can act as a reminder to stay on task. This isn’t about direct supervision or micromanagement; rather, it’s about creating an environment that fosters productivity through shared space and mutual support.

Here’s how you can implement body doubling:

  1. Find a Body Double: This can be a friend, family member, colleague, or even a professional coach. The key is to choose someone who is supportive and understanding of your needs.
  2. Set Clear Goals: Before starting, discuss your goals and tasks with your body double. This helps create a mutual understanding of what you aim to achieve.
  3. Create a Structured Environment: Decide on a quiet and comfortable space where both of you can work without interruptions. This could be a home office, a coffee shop, or a library.
  4. Use Technology: If meeting in person isn’t possible, virtual body doubling can be just as effective. Platforms like Zoom, Skype, or dedicated focus apps allow you to work alongside someone remotely.
  5. Check-In Regularly: Periodic check-ins help maintain focus and provide opportunities to reassess and adjust goals if necessary.

Why Does Body Doubling Help?

  1. Reduced Isolation: Working alongside someone else can mitigate feelings of loneliness or isolation, which can often lead to distractions.
  2. Increased Accountability: The presence of another person creates a sense of accountability. You’re more likely to stay on task when someone else is aware of your goals.
  3. Enhanced Motivation: Seeing someone else working diligently can boost your motivation and drive to stay productive.
  4. Better Time Management: Body doubling can help you structure your time more effectively, as you’re less likely to procrastinate when someone else is present.
  5. Emotional Support: Having a body double can provide emotional support, reducing stress and anxiety associated with tasks.

Real-Life Applications

  • Work and Study Sessions: Use body doubling during work hours or study sessions to stay focused and complete tasks more efficiently.
  • Household Chores: Partner with someone for cleaning or organizing tasks to make them more enjoyable and less overwhelming.
  • Creative Projects: Collaborate with a fellow artist, writer, or creator to maintain focus and inspiration during creative endeavors.

Personal Experience with Body Doubling

As a mental wellness coach specializing in focus and attention issues, I’ve seen firsthand how transformative body doubling can be for my clients. Whether it’s tackling a daunting project, preparing for exams, or simply managing daily tasks, the supportive presence of a body double can make a significant difference in maintaining focus and achieving goals.


Incorporating body doubling into your routine might be the game-changer you need to enhance your focus and productivity. Give it a try and see how this simple yet powerful technique can help you stay on task and accomplish more.

Happy Focus Friday, and here’s to a more productive and focused week ahead!


If you found this post helpful, share it with someone who might benefit from body doubling. And if you have any questions or experiences with body doubling, feel free to share them in the comments below!

Ready to get started on your Focus Journey? Grab a time slot to have a free Focus Call with me below! 👇

Focus Friday: Understanding Hyperfocus

Hey everyone! Today, let’s dive into a fascinating aspect of ADHD: hyperfocus. 🧠✨

Hyperfocus is when our brains zero in on one task with laser-like intensity, often to the exclusion of everything else. While this can be a superpower for productivity, it can also make it challenging to manage daily responsibilities.

🔍 Signs of Hyperfocus:

  1. Losing track of time ⏳
  2. Ignoring hunger or thirst 🍽️
  3. Overlooking other tasks or appointments 📅
  4. Feeling a sense of “flow” where everything else fades away 🌊

💡 Tips to Manage Hyperfocus:

  1. Set timers to take regular breaks ⏰
  2. Use alarms or reminders for important tasks 🛎️
  3. Practice mindfulness to increase awareness of your focus patterns 🧘‍♀️
  4. Break tasks into smaller chunks to prevent becoming overly absorbed 📝

Remember, hyperfocus can be a gift when harnessed effectively, but balance is key. Share your experiences with hyperfocus in the comments below. Let’s support each other in our ADHD journeys! 💬❤️

Ready to get started on your Focus Journey? Grab a time slot to have a free Focus Call with me below! 👇

Focus Friday: Why ADHDers Love (Parenthesis)

🌟 Focus Friday with Meg 🌟

Hey Amplify Wellness community! 💚

Have you ever noticed how people with ADHD often use parentheses (like this) in their writing? It’s not just a quirky habit—there’s actually a reason behind it!

For many with ADHD, parentheses are a way to capture those fleeting, tangential thoughts without losing the main thread of what they’re saying. 🧠✨ These little asides can be a helpful tool to manage the flood of ideas and keep their writing (and thinking) more organized.

But what if you want to rely on parentheses less often? Here are some tips:

  1. Bullet Points & Lists: Break down your thoughts into bullet points or lists. This keeps your writing clear and structured.
  2. Separate Sentences: Turn those parenthetical thoughts into separate sentences. It can help your main ideas stand out.
  3. Mind Maps: Use mind maps to organize your ideas visually before you start writing. This can help reduce the need for side notes.
  4. Practice & Patience: Like any new habit, it takes time. Be patient with yourself as you practice new ways of organizing your thoughts.

So next time you see (or use) a parenthesis, remember: it’s not just punctuation. It’s a strategy for clarity and focus! 📚✏️

Stay focused, stay fabulous!


Ready to take that first step in your Focus Journey? Click the link below, and let’s schedule your Free Focus Call!

Join the Q3 Accountability Krewe!

Hello, Amplify Wellness Community!

As we move closer to the third quarter, I am thrilled to invite you to join our Q3 Accountability Krewe. We have made incredible progress and built beautiful momentum in our first two quarters, with many of our Krewe members returning for a third round. We would love for you to be a part of this supportive and empowering community.

In Q3, we will focus on:

  • SMART Goal Setting and Values Identification: Define clear, achievable goals that align with your core values.
  • Stop Letting the BS Get in the Way: Overcome obstacles and eliminate distractions that hinder your progress.
  • Enhancing Focus + Minimizing Distraction: Develop strategies to stay focused and productive.
  • Clarifying Goals + Dreaming Bigger: Refine your goals and envision greater possibilities for your future.
  • Mental Health Maintenance + Building Resilience: Prioritize your mental well-being and build resilience to navigate challenges.

Our Krewe is committed to supporting each other in achieving our goals and maintaining our mental health. Whether you are returning or joining us for the first time, your presence and participation will make our community even stronger.

To join the Q3 Accountability Krewe, please click the link below!

Let’s continue to build on our success and achieve even greater heights together. We can’t wait to see the amazing progress you’ll make with us!

Focus Friday: Procrastivity

Hi, team! Today, let’s talk about something many of us are all too familiar with: Procrastivity. 🤔💭

Procrastivity is a sneaky blend of procrastination and productivity. It’s when we find ourselves doing tasks that feel productive but aren’t necessarily what we need to be doing. 🧹📚 Instead of tackling that big project or important deadline, we might organize our desk, clean the house, or dive into less urgent tasks. It feels good because we’re being active, but it can keep us from addressing what really matters.

Why does this happen? For many, it’s a way to avoid tasks that seem overwhelming or stress-inducing. The trick is to recognize when you’re caught in a cycle of procrastivity and gently steer yourself back on track.

Here are some tips to overcome procrastivity:

  1. Prioritize Tasks: Write down your top priorities for the day and focus on those first. 📝
  2. Break It Down: Large tasks can feel daunting. Break them into smaller, manageable steps. 🧩
  3. Set a Timer: Use the Pomodoro technique—work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. Repeat! ⏲️
  4. Stay Accountable: Share your goals with a friend or colleague who can help keep you on track. 🤝
  5. Self-Compassion: Don’t be too hard on yourself. Recognize the effort you’re putting in and celebrate small wins. 💖

Remember, it’s okay to take small steps. Progress is progress, no matter how small. Let’s focus on what truly matters and make today productive! 💪✨

Want to take the first step in your Focus Journey but not sure where to start? Click the link below, and let’s schedule a Free Focus Call!

#AmplifyWellness #MentalHealthMatters #Procrastivity #FocusFriday #Mindfulness #MentalWellness #FocusCall