? Turn off the sound on your computer so you don't hear "You've got mail."

? Read your email at scheduled times during the day. Otherwise ignore it, and don't chase rabbits - people send us enticing emails of all sorts - from Chadwicks got sweaters on sale, to the latest 'funny' you've GOT to send to your friend, to requests for information, to invitations to parties.

? Figure out what helps you concentrate best and insist on it -- you may need music, you may need silence, you may work better in the morning ... figure these things out.

? Know what your values and priorities are and be able to touch base with them at any given time.

. Use the DND button on your phone, and let your admin assistant screen calls and people.

? Train your loved ones. When someone understands that when it's their turn they will have your full, undivided attention and get what they need and want, they are far more likely to be able to wait for quality time.

? Don't listen to everyone else's advice. Nothing will pull you off-focus more.

? For special projects, and when you're first learning, hire a coach. This gives you knowledge, practice, accountability, and expert guidance.

? Take care of yourself and build reserves. You can't concentrate if you're too tired, too lonely, too hungry, too thirsty, etc.

? WRITE THIS ON YOUR SHOE (j.k.): "My job is to raise money" if, for instance, you're a fundraiser. This will remind you as you enter the office and all that stuff starts coming at you, what your real job is and how you should set priorities and concentrate your time.

? WRITE THIS ON THE 'FRIG: "I want to have a good marriage." These little reminders will keep you focused!

When you see them--these messages--you'll be reminded to stop and think about what you're doing to see if it's going to further your intent.

Intentionality is a high-level emotional intelligence competency that requires focus, and focus requires that old-fashioned thing called ?discipline.?

[See Part II, for the role of the leader.]

About the Author

Susan Dunn, The EQ Coach, GLOBAL EQ. Emotional intelligence coaching to enhance all areas of your life - career, relationships, midlife transition, resilience, self-esteem, parenting. EQ Alive! - excellent, accelerated, affordable EQ coach certification. Susan is the author of numerous ebooks, is widely published on the Internet, and a regular speaker for cruise lines. For marketing services go here.