#196 | Strategies For Building Your Attention With Dr. Emily Anhalt
June 10, 2025
The calendar says workday, but your focus says vacation. That “summer mode” brain is real, friends, and if you’re battling it, you’re not alone! This week on Coffee With Kim, Dr. Emily Anhalt joined us to talk all things attention, focus, and what she calls “emotional push-ups.” Yes, emotional and mental fitness—because both matter if you’re looking to be your best self at work (and beyond).
Know Your Focus Style
Dr. Emily shared that productivity isn’t “one size fits all.” She figured out (after much experimenting) that she works best in short bursts, with snacks nearby and comfy clothes. For some of us, total silence is a must. For others, a busy café does the trick. Try treating yourself like a science experiment—test out different environments and time blocks to discover how you focus best.
Procrastinators vs. Do-Aheaders
Some of us need an impending deadline and a tinge of anxiety to shift into gear, while others are early birds who like to finish projects ahead of time. Instead of fighting your natural style (or your teammate’s!), Dr. Emily suggests setting agreed upon deadlines and practicing empathy. There’s no “right way,” just “your way”—the trick is being honest with yourself about it.
Why Play Matters
Dr. Emily says playfulness is a trait emotionally strong people have in spades. Whether it’s starting a meeting with an offbeat icebreaker or gamifying a boring task, sprinkling in a little fun can reboot your energy and creativity.
So if your attention’s wandering and your to-do list is gathering dust, try experimenting, asking for feedback, and yes—playing a bit more. Who says focus can’t be fun? I want to hear what works for you!
Homework: Ask someone for feedback. Ask them what you’re doing well and what you could do 10% better?
Timestamps:
12:05 How to experiment with focus and environment
17:12 Ways to ask for feedback to increase your self awareness
21:33 The practice of one sentence journal
22:17 Tips for time blindness
25:07 3 steps for handling ADHD without meds
28:10 How to procrastinate more effectively
30:44 Ways to work effectively with procrastinators
34:30 Tricks for communicating on a team with different styles
36:45 How play increases productivity and creativity
48:02 Homework assignment
Links:
If You Enjoyed Today’s Episode:
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