Having Trouble Focusing When You Finally Have Time to Work on Your Business? Here's Why!

Picture this: You finally carve out some time to work on your business. The kids are busy, maybe your 9-5 is done for the day, and you sit down with your to-do list...but you just can’t seem to focus. Why does this happen? It’s not because you’re lazy or unmotivated—it’s just how your brain works.

Here’s the secret: Your brain craves dopamine.

Dopamine: Your Brain’s Motivation Fuel

Every time you cross something off your to-do list, your brain releases dopamine—a feel-good chemical that boosts motivation. It’s like a little high-five from your brain saying, “Great job! Keep going!”

But when you look at that massive list of tasks and see only big, looming projects, your brain doesn’t get that hit. It sees overwhelm instead.

Why Small Wins Matter

This is why breaking down your projects into small, bite-sized tasks is so powerful. Every time you complete a tiny step, you get that dopamine boost. The more you check off, the more your brain wants to keep going.

When you’re juggling work, kids, and your business, those little moments are gold. Small tasks are the secret to keeping momentum alive even when your day is full.

Try the Pomodoro Technique

One of the best ways to keep that motivation flowing is the Pomodoro Technique. Here’s how it works:
1️⃣ Set a timer for 20 minutes.
2️⃣ Focus on just one task—no distractions.
3️⃣ When the timer goes off, take a 5-minute break.

That’s it! When you have a couple of hours to yourself, repeat this cycle four times, and you’ll have worked for 1 hour and 20 minutes with solid focus. The anticipation of the break acts like a mini-reward, keeping your brain happy and motivated.

Make It Personal and Fun

Here’s the best part: if a task feels personally important, your brain releases even more dopamine. So instead of thinking, “Ugh, I have to do this,” try reframing it as, “This is helping me grow my business and get one step closer to my goals.”

Not feeling it? Add a little extra joy.
🎵 Play your favorite music while you work.
🍫 Treat yourself to a piece of chocolate when you complete a task.
📲 Set up a fun notification sound for when you check something off.

Your brain loves a reward, even if it’s something small.

Work WITH Your Brain, Not Against It

When you finally get that precious time to work on your business, make it count. Break those big goals into small, dopamine-boosting wins. Try out the Pomodoro Technique, and make your workspace a place you want to be.

The key to staying focused isn’t more discipline—it’s working with how your brain is wired. One tiny task at a time, you can keep that motivation going and make real progress.