Hyperfocus problems

[Charlie Hilgendorff]

I have a HUGE problem with hyper focus, especially when it comes to relating and interacting with my family. For instance I have been hyper focused since about August on working for / building / acting in a haunted attraction. I love doing this kind of work, but the hours (now that the Haunt is in full swing) are killing my wife. I get so wrapped up that I neglect her needs and to a lesser extent my boys. She has to get up at 4am to go to the gym before work and I am out past ten on a school night. I know I should have known better, but again, the hyper focus problem rears its ugly head.

 If it's not this then it's some other project I start and never end up finishing, all the while neglecting those I love around me. Anyone else have this problem and if so any suggestions how to not get sucked in?

[doug puryear]

tough problem, difficult strategies:
1. before starting, list all projects and possible projects on paper, write down the payoffs and costs, and time estimated to complete. add 50% to the time. then decide if they are worth starting. consult with your wife or best friend before deciding. make this a habit
2. to finish: go thru step 1 before you start. then if its worthwhile, commit to completing it. rule- complete each project before allowing yourself to start another; to do this, break it into small steps and focus on one step at a time rather than on the whole project.
there are other strategies, you need to make strategies and find which ones work for you.
good luck
doug