What is the one thing that can help move your business forward? This is a serious question I’ve been thinking about lately. I have often fallen victim to Shiny Object Objection. As a result, my focus has been spread thin and my productivity has taken a nosedive. And that’s when I discovered a unique strategy that has been really working for me. 

Now, of course, it’s important to do whatever works best for you. However, if you’ve been having a hard time staying focused on the things that matter most in your business, this may be a helpful system. Keep reading to learn more.

The Reality We Face

Here’s the reality that I was struggling with (that maybe you can relate to): I was managing too much but moving too little. I recognized that when I reflect, I see a lot of busywork, but I don’t see a lot of results or positive outcomes. Greg McKeown’s book “Essentialism” really helped to open my eyes to this idea. 

You need to find out your highest point of contribution—the one thing that only you can bring to the table. And then, how can you use that to benefit the world? I noticed, for me, that (as much as I enjoyed doing many things) I couldn’t move the needle in any meaningful way on anything if I was trying to do too much. 

The Cost of Split Focus

Spreading our focus over too many things dilutes our efforts. And that can make us extremely ineffective when it comes to reaching our business goals. For example, here are a few of the major disadvantages when it comes to splitting our focus: 

• Decisions fatigue
• Energy loss
• Half-finished ideas
• Diminished confidence
• No/low momentum
• Reinforced negative narratives

These can really hinder your ability to focus on what matters most in your business. And that can make your business life even harder. So, what’s the solution? It’s to harness the power of focus in life. 

Focus is Not Just Discipline; it’s Power

I have a confession to make: I have ADHD. But despite that, I have been able to harness the power of focus so that I am actually productive and efficient in my life and business. And what I’ve learned from this experience is that in order to do anything, we need clarity. One thing I’m guilty of is feeling like I need the perfect plan.

I constantly second-guess myself, wondering if “this” is the best way forward. And that’s when the analysis of paralysis gets in the way, and I find myself stuck in inactivity again. But one thing I’ve found that has been really helpful for me is to get clear on my trajectory—the direction I’m headed, and the next step I need to take to get there. 

And then I use the information I get from that next step is undermine the need for perfection. Sometimes, doing things imperfectly is enough to get that ball rolling and start building momentum. And that’s why it’s so crucial to focus your thoughts and take action, even if it’s something small. 

Motivation Follows Action 

If you feel stuck, like you don’t “have it in you” to take action on your business (which, let’s be honest, happens to all of us from time to time), remember that motivation follows action. So often we wait for motivation to find us before we act, but the truth is that momentum requires movement. You have to act first, and the emotion will soon follow. 

So, ask yourself: What are the actions and activities you need to do every day that will build your business? For example, my number one business-building activity is to ensure I do my cold calls and sales calls. For you, it may be something else entirely. Maybe you’re trying to build your social media presence/following or network more consistently at industry events. 

Whatever the case, the goal is to simply start. Do something. Get going. And here’s the truth: You’re not going to feel ready, and that’s okay. Start anyway. Do it imperfectly. 

In Conclusion: Identify Your One Thing

Your goal is to identify the one thing you need to do that will move the needle in your business. One thing that you can do consistently to begin making progress, even if it’s small initially. Progress has a way of compounding over time. So, don’t underestimate those little steps. And the good news is that there is support available if you need it. 

At Certified Flourishing Coach, we are a team of coaches, facilitators, and business owners just like you. We are in the trenches learning and growing together. We are a community here to support one another on our entrepreneurial journey. So, if you feel like you need additional support or assistance, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more.

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About the Author

Nicki Straza is a workplace culture strategist, speaker, and Certified Flourishing Coach with over 25 years of leadership and organizational development experience across non-profit, corporate, and small business sectors. As the founder of Straza Solutions, she partners with organizations to create inclusive, trust-based workplaces where people can thrive both individually and collectively.

A recognized specialist in generational dynamics, Nicki helps leaders bridge communication gaps, strengthen engagement, and foster collaboration in multi-generational teams. Her work integrates emotional intelligence, psychological safety, and habit-building to drive sustainable cultural transformation. She is guided by the belief that flourishing cultures begin with authentic relationships and mutual respect, she is committed to helping organizations leverage the strengths of every generation.

Nicki is a Certified Flourishing Workplace Coach & Trainer, holds a Diploma in Applied Bookkeeping, and is recognized as a Generational Dynamics Specialist. She lives in Brantford, Ontario, traditional territory of the Haudenosaunee and Anishnaabeg First Nations, with her husband and is the proud mother of two adult children.