The great CEOs know that in order to be a high-powered executive, you need to stop multi-tasking and tackle one task at a time like a high-powered sniper rifle.

But how to stop multi-tasking? A conference call goes long and you start quietly typing out an email. Or you have several windows open on the computer at once including email, chat, spreadsheets, the web, streaming music, and other documents. Multi-tasking is addictive and seemingly inevitable. So how to kick the habit?

Take Control
The hardest part to quitting your multi-tasking is to apply old-fashioned willpower and just do it. It takes 30 days to form a habit, so after the first month of single-tasking, you’ll have momentum

Batch Your Work
Set a schedule for completing certain kinds of work all at once. Let your colleagues know that you’ll only be answering calls between certain hours, then follow through and set your phone to “Do Not Disturb.” Or decide to hone in on some analysis or writing work and close your email and internet programs. Set yourself up for success by removing as much of the background noise and processes as possible.

“Eat the Frog”
Each day, you have a series of tasks to complete. And there is almost always a big, hard task for the day that you probably dread, like eating a metaphorical frog. But instead of putting it off, do this task first. The rest of your tasks will seem easy in comparison.

You’ll Like It
Staying focused will make you feel effective, because you are effective. You’ll make amazing progress on your projects and stop spending time on time-wasting progress or idle web surfing.