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Finding Focus: Own Your Attention in an Age of Distraction
A must-read action plan to reclaim your focus, direct your attention, and save your mind in an era of endless distraction
Featuring a 21 Day Kickstart Guide to Focus
Our brains are wired for focus. We are designed for it, we crave it, and yet in our current age of overload we too often feel like our minds are bolting from one distraction to the next, with sustained focus always just out of reach.
Finding Focus is an empowering guide to reclaiming your most precious your attention. Leading behavioral scientist Dr. Zelana Montminy unveils the science behind focus and distraction, revealing how our hyperconnected reality and the endless flux between digital and physical life fragments our thoughts and diminishes our well-being.
The good news? Your brain is more adaptable than you think. Finding Focus equips you with powerful strategies
· Silence the Learn to manage distractions and cultivate an environment that fosters deep concentration.
· Rewire your Discover the science of neuroplasticity and harness its power to train your brain for sustained focus.
· Unleash your Reclaim the ability to connect meaningfully, contribute authentically, and shape the life you desire.
· Rediscover Fuel your curiosity, creativity, and capacity for joy.
Focus is key to our ability to do good work, but it’s connected to so much more than just efficiency or productivity. When our rest is punctured by email notifications we feel exhausted; when family time is disrupted by multitasking we seem disconnected from each other; when creative space is drained away by the lure of other priorities, we feel empty. But if we can control our attention and be present, if we choose when and how we engage, we have a greater sense of wellbeing, deeper fulfillment, and a clear purpose. Finding Focus invites you to ask the question “Where do I want to direct my focus today?” and supports you on your journey to reclaiming your attention and curating the life you want to lead. It is a call to arms for anyone yearning to break free from the grip of distraction and live a life brimming with purpose and connection.
Featuring a 21 Day Kickstart Guide to Focus
Our brains are wired for focus. We are designed for it, we crave it, and yet in our current age of overload we too often feel like our minds are bolting from one distraction to the next, with sustained focus always just out of reach.
Finding Focus is an empowering guide to reclaiming your most precious your attention. Leading behavioral scientist Dr. Zelana Montminy unveils the science behind focus and distraction, revealing how our hyperconnected reality and the endless flux between digital and physical life fragments our thoughts and diminishes our well-being.
The good news? Your brain is more adaptable than you think. Finding Focus equips you with powerful strategies
· Silence the Learn to manage distractions and cultivate an environment that fosters deep concentration.
· Rewire your Discover the science of neuroplasticity and harness its power to train your brain for sustained focus.
· Unleash your Reclaim the ability to connect meaningfully, contribute authentically, and shape the life you desire.
· Rediscover Fuel your curiosity, creativity, and capacity for joy.
Focus is key to our ability to do good work, but it’s connected to so much more than just efficiency or productivity. When our rest is punctured by email notifications we feel exhausted; when family time is disrupted by multitasking we seem disconnected from each other; when creative space is drained away by the lure of other priorities, we feel empty. But if we can control our attention and be present, if we choose when and how we engage, we have a greater sense of wellbeing, deeper fulfillment, and a clear purpose. Finding Focus invites you to ask the question “Where do I want to direct my focus today?” and supports you on your journey to reclaiming your attention and curating the life you want to lead. It is a call to arms for anyone yearning to break free from the grip of distraction and live a life brimming with purpose and connection.
336 pages, Hardcover
Published September 16, 2025
29 people are currently reading
5016 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
October 20, 2025
The author included many irrelevant and basic topics, such as good nutrition and the benefits of sleep. Additionally, while a few chapters discussed the effects of social media on focus, it was not thoroughly explored.
October 4, 2025
Ich weiß nicht was mich geritten hat, aber es war wohl mein Wille endlich nicht mehr doom scrolling zu betreiben. Paar hilfreiche Studien zitiert, aber es ist so seicht geschrieben, zitiert nur immer wieder die langweiligen Self-help Bücher die überall an Flughäfen ausliegen. Ein einziger Mid-Cult, und ich weiß nicht warum ich anderes erwartet habe.
Erkenntnisse nehme ich schon mit, aber lesenswert ist es nicht
Erkenntnisse nehme ich schon mit, aber lesenswert ist es nicht
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November 14, 2025In "Finding Focus: Own Your Attention in an Age of Distraction", Zelana Montminy explores how modern life has chipped away at our ability to stay present, think clearly, and engage meaningfully with the world around us. The digital age has turned distraction into a default setting, creating a culture where noise drowns out intention and constant stimulation replaces genuine connection. The pandemic, strangely enough, served as a pause that exposed this reality; when the external world went quiet, many people finally noticed how scattered their minds had become and how disconnected they felt from their own lives. Montminy argues that in order to reclaim our attention, we must first recognize that focus isn’t a rare talent or a fleeting mood - it’s a capacity that grows from the ways we live, care for our bodies, design our routines, and nourish our relationships. Regaining control of our attention is possible, but it requires a full-life approach rather than a single tactic or productivity trick.
The book begins by reminding us that attention is not just a mental skill - it’s a resource linked to physical, emotional, and environmental foundations. Montminy introduces five essential pillars: vision, nourishment, sleep, movement, and nature. Vision functions as the guiding force for all attention; when you know what matters most to you, it becomes easier to sort the essential from the distracting. Setting a clear vision gives the mind something to anchor to, especially in a world driven by algorithms competing for our focus. Nourishment also plays a crucial role, because the brain depends on stable energy and a healthy gut to function well. Foods rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, probiotics, and fiber not only enhance cognitive performance but also stabilize mood, which directly influences your ability to stay focused. Sleep, often sacrificed in busy lives, emerges as a non-negotiable ingredient for attention. Without consistent and sufficient rest, Montminy explains, reaction time slows, memory falters, and willpower crumbles - creating a mind that is more vulnerable to distraction. Movement supports these systems by boosting neurotransmitters connected to motivation and executive function, while nature gently restores attention through effortless sensory engagement. Together, these pillars form the biological and psychological foundation upon which focus can grow.
Once this foundation is in place, Montminy shifts to the strategies that help protect focus throughout daily life. One of her core insights is that most people don’t struggle because they’re unproductive - they struggle because their attention is constantly pulled toward low-value tasks. To counter this, she suggests replacing traditional to-do lists with priority-centered planning. The 'Big Rocks' metaphor encourages placing impactful tasks into the day first, letting smaller tasks fill the remaining space rather than the other way around. Time-blocking becomes a practical extension of this method, allowing people to dedicate uninterrupted segments of the day to meaningful work while grouping routine tasks together. Montminy emphasizes that these blocks should be connected to one’s larger vision, giving each period of work a clear emotional purpose. Building focus gradually is also essential; like a muscle, it strengthens with training. Small increments of uninterrupted work - supported by techniques like the Pomodoro method - can condition the mind to tolerate longer periods of concentration. Brain-challenging hobbies, puzzles, reading, and creative activities further reinforce attentional stamina by engaging diverse neural circuits. Tools such as noise-canceling headphones, instrumental music, or natural soundscapes can also support focused work, but the deeper change comes from redefining urgency and learning to stop reacting instantly to every ping and message.
Boundaries become indispensable in protecting time and attention. Montminy argues that most distractions carry a false sense of importance because we have trained ourselves to respond immediately. Reclaiming focus requires resetting expectations with others through clear communication about availability and deadlines, as well as setting personal limits around work hours and digital interaction. Breaks are also vital - not as escapes from productivity, but as maintenance for the brain. Short, restorative pauses every hour or so prevent decision fatigue and keep the mind refreshed. Stepping into sunlight, moving the body, or simply breathing away from screens can reset attention far more effectively than scrolling through social media. Over time, these practices stack together to form days filled with more intentional and controlled periods of concentration.
While external distractions are challenging, Montminy highlights that internal distractions can be even more powerful. Developing presence - the practice of bringing awareness back to the moment - helps minimize the mental clutter that pulls us toward worry or rumination. Mindfulness, anchored in simple breathing exercises or sensory awareness, becomes a way to retrain the mind to stay where life is actually happening. When practiced consistently, it enhances calmness, strengthens decision-making, and deepens emotional clarity. This presence naturally enhances listening skills as well. Real listening is not waiting for your turn to speak, but fully absorbing another person’s words without preoccupation or judgment. Montminy suggests that device-free conversations, reflective responses, and slowing down the rhythm of dialogue help restore human connection and reduce the cognitive drag created by half-attending to others.
From presence, Montminy moves outward toward how focus interacts with our relationships and communities. She notes that while digital communication is convenient, it cannot replace face-to-face interactions, which stimulate more neural activity and deepen emotional well-being. Even small daily encounters can fuel a sense of belonging and mental clarity. To nurture social focus, Montminy recommends simple actions like meeting a friend for a brief walk, putting the phone away during conversations, and sharing thoughts beyond surface-level exchanges. Creativity and curiosity round out her approach to external focus. Creativity is any form of making, imagining, or problem-solving that engages the mind beyond passive consumption. Whether through art, writing, cooking, or innovative approaches to work challenges, it strengthens neural pathways and lifts mood. Curiosity, meanwhile, acts as the spark that draws attention toward ideas worth exploring. By asking better questions, following intuitions, and creating unstructured thinking time, people cultivate a mental environment where focus thrives naturally rather than through force.
Ultimately, "Finding Focus: Own Your Attention in an Age of Distraction" argues that attention is not reclaimed through a single change but through a way of living that aligns mind, body, habits, and relationships. The book’s core message is that a focused life grows from deliberate choices - nourishing the brain, honoring sleep, moving regularly, spending time outdoors, structuring days around meaningful priorities, practicing presence, nurturing community, and engaging curiosity. These practices transform focus into a dependable companion that supports clarity, purpose, and emotional well-being. In the end, Montminy reminds us that attention is more than a productivity tool; it is the lens through which we experience our relationships, our aspirations, and the world itself. Reclaiming it means reclaiming our lives.
The book begins by reminding us that attention is not just a mental skill - it’s a resource linked to physical, emotional, and environmental foundations. Montminy introduces five essential pillars: vision, nourishment, sleep, movement, and nature. Vision functions as the guiding force for all attention; when you know what matters most to you, it becomes easier to sort the essential from the distracting. Setting a clear vision gives the mind something to anchor to, especially in a world driven by algorithms competing for our focus. Nourishment also plays a crucial role, because the brain depends on stable energy and a healthy gut to function well. Foods rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, probiotics, and fiber not only enhance cognitive performance but also stabilize mood, which directly influences your ability to stay focused. Sleep, often sacrificed in busy lives, emerges as a non-negotiable ingredient for attention. Without consistent and sufficient rest, Montminy explains, reaction time slows, memory falters, and willpower crumbles - creating a mind that is more vulnerable to distraction. Movement supports these systems by boosting neurotransmitters connected to motivation and executive function, while nature gently restores attention through effortless sensory engagement. Together, these pillars form the biological and psychological foundation upon which focus can grow.
Once this foundation is in place, Montminy shifts to the strategies that help protect focus throughout daily life. One of her core insights is that most people don’t struggle because they’re unproductive - they struggle because their attention is constantly pulled toward low-value tasks. To counter this, she suggests replacing traditional to-do lists with priority-centered planning. The 'Big Rocks' metaphor encourages placing impactful tasks into the day first, letting smaller tasks fill the remaining space rather than the other way around. Time-blocking becomes a practical extension of this method, allowing people to dedicate uninterrupted segments of the day to meaningful work while grouping routine tasks together. Montminy emphasizes that these blocks should be connected to one’s larger vision, giving each period of work a clear emotional purpose. Building focus gradually is also essential; like a muscle, it strengthens with training. Small increments of uninterrupted work - supported by techniques like the Pomodoro method - can condition the mind to tolerate longer periods of concentration. Brain-challenging hobbies, puzzles, reading, and creative activities further reinforce attentional stamina by engaging diverse neural circuits. Tools such as noise-canceling headphones, instrumental music, or natural soundscapes can also support focused work, but the deeper change comes from redefining urgency and learning to stop reacting instantly to every ping and message.
Boundaries become indispensable in protecting time and attention. Montminy argues that most distractions carry a false sense of importance because we have trained ourselves to respond immediately. Reclaiming focus requires resetting expectations with others through clear communication about availability and deadlines, as well as setting personal limits around work hours and digital interaction. Breaks are also vital - not as escapes from productivity, but as maintenance for the brain. Short, restorative pauses every hour or so prevent decision fatigue and keep the mind refreshed. Stepping into sunlight, moving the body, or simply breathing away from screens can reset attention far more effectively than scrolling through social media. Over time, these practices stack together to form days filled with more intentional and controlled periods of concentration.
While external distractions are challenging, Montminy highlights that internal distractions can be even more powerful. Developing presence - the practice of bringing awareness back to the moment - helps minimize the mental clutter that pulls us toward worry or rumination. Mindfulness, anchored in simple breathing exercises or sensory awareness, becomes a way to retrain the mind to stay where life is actually happening. When practiced consistently, it enhances calmness, strengthens decision-making, and deepens emotional clarity. This presence naturally enhances listening skills as well. Real listening is not waiting for your turn to speak, but fully absorbing another person’s words without preoccupation or judgment. Montminy suggests that device-free conversations, reflective responses, and slowing down the rhythm of dialogue help restore human connection and reduce the cognitive drag created by half-attending to others.
From presence, Montminy moves outward toward how focus interacts with our relationships and communities. She notes that while digital communication is convenient, it cannot replace face-to-face interactions, which stimulate more neural activity and deepen emotional well-being. Even small daily encounters can fuel a sense of belonging and mental clarity. To nurture social focus, Montminy recommends simple actions like meeting a friend for a brief walk, putting the phone away during conversations, and sharing thoughts beyond surface-level exchanges. Creativity and curiosity round out her approach to external focus. Creativity is any form of making, imagining, or problem-solving that engages the mind beyond passive consumption. Whether through art, writing, cooking, or innovative approaches to work challenges, it strengthens neural pathways and lifts mood. Curiosity, meanwhile, acts as the spark that draws attention toward ideas worth exploring. By asking better questions, following intuitions, and creating unstructured thinking time, people cultivate a mental environment where focus thrives naturally rather than through force.
Ultimately, "Finding Focus: Own Your Attention in an Age of Distraction" argues that attention is not reclaimed through a single change but through a way of living that aligns mind, body, habits, and relationships. The book’s core message is that a focused life grows from deliberate choices - nourishing the brain, honoring sleep, moving regularly, spending time outdoors, structuring days around meaningful priorities, practicing presence, nurturing community, and engaging curiosity. These practices transform focus into a dependable companion that supports clarity, purpose, and emotional well-being. In the end, Montminy reminds us that attention is more than a productivity tool; it is the lens through which we experience our relationships, our aspirations, and the world itself. Reclaiming it means reclaiming our lives.
July 2, 2025
This book was helpful and insightful. As someone who has read a lot of similar books on this subject, I did not feel like there was anything super unique or new to be learned from this book. It would be helpful for someone who is newer to this topic.
November 14, 2025
BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front)
A clear, research-backed primer on focus, but nothing new if you’ve been in this space awhile.
Executive Summary
Finding Focus synthesizes well-established research on attention and offers practical steps for reclaiming it. Core recommendations include:
1. Nourish your body and brain: eat omega-3s, antioxidant-rich plants, and maintain balanced hydration.
2. Protect sleep: aim for 7–9 hours at a consistent schedule tailored to your natural rhythms.
3. Move daily: use exercise to stabilize mood, energy, and cognitive capacity.
4. Spend time in nature: reduce cognitive load and reset attentional bandwidth.
5. Clarify priorities using a “big bucket” method: identify your top 1–3 essential tasks and disregard the rest.
6. Use structured work cycles like the Pomodoro technique: alternate focused sprints with deliberate breaks.
7. Set boundaries with digital devices: remove nonessential notifications and create friction for distraction.
Review
Montminy offers a terrific literature review of research-proven techniques for managing attention: sleep hygiene, nutrition, exercise, nature exposure, deliberate prioritization, and structured work cycles. All of it is evidence-based, all of it is sound, and none of it is surprising.
If this is your first book on focus, or if you already “know” these principles but still haven’t built them into your life, this could easily be a five-star read. However, for readers who track the cognitive science and productivity literature, it’s essentially a well-packaged recap. I landed at three stars mainly because I’ve read every source she cites — which made the experience feel less revelatory and more like a reminder that I’m getting older in this field.
Similar Reads
* Deep Work by Cal Newport — a more rigorous, original take on focus in knowledge work.
* Indistractable by Nir Eyal — practical behavioral strategies for managing digital cues.
* Peak Mind by Amishi Jha — a stronger neuroscientific foundation for training attention.
Authorship Note: This review was co-authored using a time-saving GPT I built to help structure and refine my thoughts.
A clear, research-backed primer on focus, but nothing new if you’ve been in this space awhile.
Executive Summary
Finding Focus synthesizes well-established research on attention and offers practical steps for reclaiming it. Core recommendations include:
1. Nourish your body and brain: eat omega-3s, antioxidant-rich plants, and maintain balanced hydration.
2. Protect sleep: aim for 7–9 hours at a consistent schedule tailored to your natural rhythms.
3. Move daily: use exercise to stabilize mood, energy, and cognitive capacity.
4. Spend time in nature: reduce cognitive load and reset attentional bandwidth.
5. Clarify priorities using a “big bucket” method: identify your top 1–3 essential tasks and disregard the rest.
6. Use structured work cycles like the Pomodoro technique: alternate focused sprints with deliberate breaks.
7. Set boundaries with digital devices: remove nonessential notifications and create friction for distraction.
Review
Montminy offers a terrific literature review of research-proven techniques for managing attention: sleep hygiene, nutrition, exercise, nature exposure, deliberate prioritization, and structured work cycles. All of it is evidence-based, all of it is sound, and none of it is surprising.
If this is your first book on focus, or if you already “know” these principles but still haven’t built them into your life, this could easily be a five-star read. However, for readers who track the cognitive science and productivity literature, it’s essentially a well-packaged recap. I landed at three stars mainly because I’ve read every source she cites — which made the experience feel less revelatory and more like a reminder that I’m getting older in this field.
Similar Reads
* Deep Work by Cal Newport — a more rigorous, original take on focus in knowledge work.
* Indistractable by Nir Eyal — practical behavioral strategies for managing digital cues.
* Peak Mind by Amishi Jha — a stronger neuroscientific foundation for training attention.
Authorship Note: This review was co-authored using a time-saving GPT I built to help structure and refine my thoughts.
September 30, 2025
This book serves as a wake-up call to reclaim your mind—and your life! The author dives into the modern epidemic of distraction, how devices and cultural noise constantly hijack our attention, and why focus—not time—is our most valuable resource. Drawing on her expertise in psychology, she explains why our brains are so susceptible to information overload and why multitasking often leaves us feeling more drained than productive. The book is structured as both explanation and guide: Montminy outlines the science behind attention and then walks readers through exercises, reflection prompts, and small habit shifts designed to help them reclaim control. She makes the case that focus isn’t about rigid discipline or shutting out the world entirely—it’s about learning to notice what matters most and giving it the attention it deserves.
What I liked most is how practical and compassionate her approach feels. Montminy doesn’t shame us for being scattered—she acknowledges how hard it is to live in a culture designed to keep us distracted. Instead, she shares practical ways to reclaim clarity, rebuild mental fitness, and reconnect with what matters most. She offers doable steps, from how to design more mindful routines to how to reset after lapses in attention. But this isn't just a productivity book; it’s a reminder that choosing where we place our attention is also choosing the kind of life we want to live.
To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at:
https://shows.acast.com/moms-dont-hav...
What I liked most is how practical and compassionate her approach feels. Montminy doesn’t shame us for being scattered—she acknowledges how hard it is to live in a culture designed to keep us distracted. Instead, she shares practical ways to reclaim clarity, rebuild mental fitness, and reconnect with what matters most. She offers doable steps, from how to design more mindful routines to how to reset after lapses in attention. But this isn't just a productivity book; it’s a reminder that choosing where we place our attention is also choosing the kind of life we want to live.
To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at:
https://shows.acast.com/moms-dont-hav...
June 15, 2025
Finding Focus is an excellent and incredibly relatable guide to reclaiming your attention and improving your overall quality of life. Dr. Zelana Montminy blends science, personal stories, her patients stories and practical strategies to show how improving focus can strengthen your relationships, boost your health, and help you feel more present and grounded in everyday life.
One moment in the book that really hit home was when she describes being so consumed by an email in her car that she didn’t notice her child was calling her. We’ve all had moments like that, this book helps you understand why they happen and what to do about it.
What I loved most is that every chapter ends with a clear summary of the key points. Dr. Montminy understands her audience if you’ve lost focus while reading, she gently brings you back. Early chapters focus on foundational pillars like diet, sleep, and exercise. Then she dives deeper into building habits that foster attention and awareness in your daily life.
The final chapter celebrates creativity as a form of focus, which was such an inspiring and refreshing way to close the book.
The book wraps up with a 21-day focus plan. Personally, I’d stretch it into 21 weeks to really absorb and practice each habit, it’s about long-term change, not just a quick fix. One of her suggestions, like skipping GPS on familiar routes, really stuck with me. It forces you to stay mentally engaged and actually improved my awareness behind the wheel.
Finding Focus is the perfect follow-up read to The Anxious Generation by Johnathan Haidt or Stolen Focus by Johann Hari. If you’re looking to improve your habits, deepen your relationships, and sharpen your mental clarity, this book is a must-read!
One moment in the book that really hit home was when she describes being so consumed by an email in her car that she didn’t notice her child was calling her. We’ve all had moments like that, this book helps you understand why they happen and what to do about it.
What I loved most is that every chapter ends with a clear summary of the key points. Dr. Montminy understands her audience if you’ve lost focus while reading, she gently brings you back. Early chapters focus on foundational pillars like diet, sleep, and exercise. Then she dives deeper into building habits that foster attention and awareness in your daily life.
The final chapter celebrates creativity as a form of focus, which was such an inspiring and refreshing way to close the book.
The book wraps up with a 21-day focus plan. Personally, I’d stretch it into 21 weeks to really absorb and practice each habit, it’s about long-term change, not just a quick fix. One of her suggestions, like skipping GPS on familiar routes, really stuck with me. It forces you to stay mentally engaged and actually improved my awareness behind the wheel.
Finding Focus is the perfect follow-up read to The Anxious Generation by Johnathan Haidt or Stolen Focus by Johann Hari. If you’re looking to improve your habits, deepen your relationships, and sharpen your mental clarity, this book is a must-read!
November 5, 2025
I received a copy of this book for free in a Goodreads giveaway.
I was hoping that reading this book would give me a bunch of tips about how to maintain focus in a world full of distractions, and while it does have some useful tips, a lot of it is sort of generic "wellness" advice that I've seen so many times before, and I don't even read these types of books that often. The introduction makes it seem like this would draw on a lot of academic literature, but the end result feels like a collection of generic advice that's pretty commonplace, even if it is backed by science.
The two things that I remember the most after reading this book, perhaps because they were new to me, were the Eisenhower Decision Matrix of importance and urgency, and the 4-7-8 breathing method, which I don't know that I'll ever use. I do think that thinking about the importance and urgency of things you need to do is actually quite helpful, and to think about things as being important, urgent, both, or neither, and prioritizing them accordingly is useful advice. I feel like this does make you prioritize the things that are both important and urgent, but that's more prioritization, and not specifically focus.
That the book just talks about all of these different topics and often doesn't really relate them to the main topic of focus makes the book feel unfocused, ironically. The first part of the book talks about generic wellness things like eating nutritiously, sleeping well, getting exercise, etc. that is really nothing I haven't heard before. And while I'm sure you need these foundational habits to really focus on work and other things, I could not help but wish that there were more specific tips relating to focusing and getting things done. Many of the topics also sort of blend together in a way that makes them hard to distinguish. I cannot remember what the difference is between the "Process" and "Practice" chapters, and a lot of the chapters repackage similar-sounding advice. There's also some weird things like the guided theta meditation (with a QR code that didn't work for me), which has you imagine yourself going upward through stars and galaxies and such and then come back down. It's hard to imagine that this is meant for everyone to do as a tool for improving focus.
There's a "21-Day Guide to Focus" as an appendix, but this is really just a rehash of the chapters of the book. It makes me wonder why some of these things weren't just included in the main text, like the table to record your energy, focus, and mood throughout various times of the day. This seems like a useful exercise that could have just been part of the main text.
It's hard for me to remember that many specific things from this book because a lot of the advice was so generic and not specific to focus (or maybe I wasn't focused enough while reading it). I kept wishing for more specific insights about focus, more about social media and notifications and such instead of just mentioning these things multiple times as distractions. It's certainly not a harmful book, but not a particularly helpful one, either.
I was hoping that reading this book would give me a bunch of tips about how to maintain focus in a world full of distractions, and while it does have some useful tips, a lot of it is sort of generic "wellness" advice that I've seen so many times before, and I don't even read these types of books that often. The introduction makes it seem like this would draw on a lot of academic literature, but the end result feels like a collection of generic advice that's pretty commonplace, even if it is backed by science.
The two things that I remember the most after reading this book, perhaps because they were new to me, were the Eisenhower Decision Matrix of importance and urgency, and the 4-7-8 breathing method, which I don't know that I'll ever use. I do think that thinking about the importance and urgency of things you need to do is actually quite helpful, and to think about things as being important, urgent, both, or neither, and prioritizing them accordingly is useful advice. I feel like this does make you prioritize the things that are both important and urgent, but that's more prioritization, and not specifically focus.
That the book just talks about all of these different topics and often doesn't really relate them to the main topic of focus makes the book feel unfocused, ironically. The first part of the book talks about generic wellness things like eating nutritiously, sleeping well, getting exercise, etc. that is really nothing I haven't heard before. And while I'm sure you need these foundational habits to really focus on work and other things, I could not help but wish that there were more specific tips relating to focusing and getting things done. Many of the topics also sort of blend together in a way that makes them hard to distinguish. I cannot remember what the difference is between the "Process" and "Practice" chapters, and a lot of the chapters repackage similar-sounding advice. There's also some weird things like the guided theta meditation (with a QR code that didn't work for me), which has you imagine yourself going upward through stars and galaxies and such and then come back down. It's hard to imagine that this is meant for everyone to do as a tool for improving focus.
There's a "21-Day Guide to Focus" as an appendix, but this is really just a rehash of the chapters of the book. It makes me wonder why some of these things weren't just included in the main text, like the table to record your energy, focus, and mood throughout various times of the day. This seems like a useful exercise that could have just been part of the main text.
It's hard for me to remember that many specific things from this book because a lot of the advice was so generic and not specific to focus (or maybe I wasn't focused enough while reading it). I kept wishing for more specific insights about focus, more about social media and notifications and such instead of just mentioning these things multiple times as distractions. It's certainly not a harmful book, but not a particularly helpful one, either.
September 11, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Sometimes you need to hear what you already know!
Okay, full transparency... this book didn't blow my mind with revolutionary new concepts. But you know what? Sometimes that's exactly what you need. As a busy mom working full-time with three boys AND trying to finish my PhD, I am the poster child for someone who's been completely devoured by life and can't seem to refocus.
Dr. Montminy really gets it. The thing is, I KNOW what I should be doing. I know I should be sleeping better, I know I shouldn't try to multitask everything, I know I need to pause and breathe. But knowing and actually putting it into action? Totally different beasts.
What I loved about this book is that it called me out (in the nicest way possible). The science behind why multitasking is basically impossible and unhealthy? Yeah, I hated being told that because I'm guilty as charged. But sometimes you need someone to spell it out for you, even when you already kind of know it.
The topics here are right up my alley! Resilience! Self-awareness! Pausing to observe your patterns! Dr. Montminy helped me actually notice some of the unhealthy things I'm doing, which sounds obvious but isn't always easy when you're in survival mode.
I will say, some advice (like the sleep stuff) is just not happening right now with young kids, and I think she'd probably understand that. But there's plenty of other actionable stuff I can work on.
If you're feeling scattered and overwhelmed by modern life, this is a solid read. It's not going to change your world overnight, but it might help you pause long enough to figure out where to start.
Okay, full transparency... this book didn't blow my mind with revolutionary new concepts. But you know what? Sometimes that's exactly what you need. As a busy mom working full-time with three boys AND trying to finish my PhD, I am the poster child for someone who's been completely devoured by life and can't seem to refocus.
Dr. Montminy really gets it. The thing is, I KNOW what I should be doing. I know I should be sleeping better, I know I shouldn't try to multitask everything, I know I need to pause and breathe. But knowing and actually putting it into action? Totally different beasts.
What I loved about this book is that it called me out (in the nicest way possible). The science behind why multitasking is basically impossible and unhealthy? Yeah, I hated being told that because I'm guilty as charged. But sometimes you need someone to spell it out for you, even when you already kind of know it.
The topics here are right up my alley! Resilience! Self-awareness! Pausing to observe your patterns! Dr. Montminy helped me actually notice some of the unhealthy things I'm doing, which sounds obvious but isn't always easy when you're in survival mode.
I will say, some advice (like the sleep stuff) is just not happening right now with young kids, and I think she'd probably understand that. But there's plenty of other actionable stuff I can work on.
If you're feeling scattered and overwhelmed by modern life, this is a solid read. It's not going to change your world overnight, but it might help you pause long enough to figure out where to start.
December 7, 2024
"Finding Focus" is an insightful and practical guide that addresses the increasingly common struggle of maintaining focus and attention in our modern, distraction-filled world. Author Zelana Montminy draws upon her expertise in psychology and neuroscience to offer a wealth of strategies and techniques for improving concentration, productivity, and overall mental well-being.
While it serves as an excellent companion to Johann Hari's "Stealing Focus," "Finding Focus" stands out for its actionable advice and accessible writing style. Montminy skillfully navigates complex scientific concepts, translating them into relatable and easily applicable tools for readers looking to enhance their ability to focus and thrive in a world saturated with distractions.
Whether you're a student seeking to improve your study habits, a professional striving for better work-life balance, or simply someone looking to regain control over your attention, "Finding Focus" is an invaluable resource that delivers on its promise to help you cultivate a sharper, more resilient mind.
** Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a digital ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review **
While it serves as an excellent companion to Johann Hari's "Stealing Focus," "Finding Focus" stands out for its actionable advice and accessible writing style. Montminy skillfully navigates complex scientific concepts, translating them into relatable and easily applicable tools for readers looking to enhance their ability to focus and thrive in a world saturated with distractions.
Whether you're a student seeking to improve your study habits, a professional striving for better work-life balance, or simply someone looking to regain control over your attention, "Finding Focus" is an invaluable resource that delivers on its promise to help you cultivate a sharper, more resilient mind.
** Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing a digital ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review **
July 25, 2025
Finding Focus: Own Your Attention in an Age of Distraction is exactly the book I didn’t know I needed—until I read it. In a world where every second of attention feels under siege, this book cuts through the noise with clarity, insight, and actionable wisdom. Zelana masterfully blends neuroscience, behavioral psychology, and real-world strategies into a compelling and empowering roadmap for taking back control of our most valuable resource: our focus.
What sets this book apart is its balance—deeply researched but never dry, reflective but grounded in practical application. It doesn’t just diagnose the problem of distraction; it offers tools to build a better relationship with attention, technology, and even our own thoughts. I found myself pausing often, not because I lost interest, but because I needed time to absorb and reflect on the insights.
Thank you to Hachette Books and Zelana Montminy for the advance copy and the opportunity to provide my honest feedback. Finding Focus is a timely and transformative read that I’ll be recommending to colleagues, friends, and anyone feeling stretched too thin by modern life.
What sets this book apart is its balance—deeply researched but never dry, reflective but grounded in practical application. It doesn’t just diagnose the problem of distraction; it offers tools to build a better relationship with attention, technology, and even our own thoughts. I found myself pausing often, not because I lost interest, but because I needed time to absorb and reflect on the insights.
Thank you to Hachette Books and Zelana Montminy for the advance copy and the opportunity to provide my honest feedback. Finding Focus is a timely and transformative read that I’ll be recommending to colleagues, friends, and anyone feeling stretched too thin by modern life.
July 15, 2025
I really liked this book. I especially appreciated that it doesn’t frame focus (or the lack of it) as something disordered, but rather as a challenge anyone can struggle with. The author, drawing from her background in psychology and neuroscience, takes a holistic approach that feels both thoughtful and grounded.
It also wasn’t just productivity-focused, which was refreshing. At its core, the book is about being present in your life and learning how to direct your attention toward what truly matters to you. It emphasizes autonomy while also acknowledging the broader influence of our environments.
As a therapist, I’ve already recommended it to several patients, knowing it will resonate with many of them.
It also wasn’t just productivity-focused, which was refreshing. At its core, the book is about being present in your life and learning how to direct your attention toward what truly matters to you. It emphasizes autonomy while also acknowledging the broader influence of our environments.
As a therapist, I’ve already recommended it to several patients, knowing it will resonate with many of them.
June 21, 2025
Finding Focus is a thorough and holistic guide to not just focus, but being present in our lives. I expected Montminy to give ideas on how to zone in to work (which she does) but she blew me away with the full body, mind, and life approach she takes. Being able to focus is more than productivity. Montminy wants the reader to live a life of intention so that any given moment is honored with our full attention. I loved that each chapter has a small recap to help the key points sink in. The book ends with a 21 day Guide to Focus. It’s the perfect way to break down the book into pieces that can be translated into new habits.
Thank you, NetGalley, for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
Thank you, NetGalley, for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
October 14, 2025
I pre-ordered this because the author's Instagram posts were insightful and deep. Unfortunately, the book is neither of those things. This might be helpful to someone who has never read any book or article on wellness, but it is so basic that it is rendered useless to anyone who knows that taking a walk and getting good sleep help your well-being.
November 18, 2025
A good easy read full of practical tips and reminders to improve focus.
I do love the holistic approach to attention and focus (sleep, nutrition, stress management, time blocking, training your attention) but wish we dug a bit deeper
I do love the holistic approach to attention and focus (sleep, nutrition, stress management, time blocking, training your attention) but wish we dug a bit deeper
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