Will Holland is the Principal of Strategy and Marketing (PoSM) at ThreeWill, where he champions our core values by shaping and sharing how ThreeWill helps employees thrive. Using his love for storytelling, Will leverages his unique ability to balance technical depth and strategic vision, bridging the gap between developers and business leaders through clear, creative communication. Outside of work, Will can usually be found at the nearest soccer pitch, either cheering for his kids or for Atlanta United.
As a CEO, your time is one of the most valuable assets your organization has. Yet, between endless meetings, urgent emails, and constant notifications, it’s easy to feel like there’s no time left for the strategic, deep work that truly moves the business forward. The good news? Microsoft Teams offers a simple yet powerful solution: scheduling “Focus Time” with the Viva Insights app. This practical tip requires no technical expertise and can help you immediately reclaim valuable hours in your day.
What Is Focus Time?
Focus Time is a feature within the Viva Insights app in Microsoft Teams. It allows you to block uninterrupted time on your calendar specifically for deep work. During Focus Time, Teams notifications are automatically silenced, ensuring you can concentrate without distractions. Think of it as a digital “Do Not Disturb” sign that gives you control over your schedule.
Why Focus Time Works
Research shows that uninterrupted time is critical for productivity, especially for tasks that require critical thinking and creativity. Constant interruptions—even small ones—can derail focus and make it harder to get back on track. By proactively scheduling Focus Time, you’re not just protecting your time; you’re signaling to your team and yourself that deep work is a priority.
How to Schedule Focus Time in Microsoft Teams
Here’s how you can get started with Focus Time today:
- Open the Viva Insights App: In Microsoft Teams, click the three dots (…) on the left-hand menu to find and open the Viva Insights app. If it’s not already installed, you can easily add it by searching for “Viva Insights.”
- Open the Viva Insights settings: Once the Viva Insights app is open, click the ellipses in the upper right hand corner, and choose the Settings menu item.
- Navigate to Protect Time: Once inside the app, go to the “Protect Time” section. Viva Insights will suggest available time slots based on your calendar.
- Schedule Focus Time: Select the suggested slots that work best for you. These will automatically block your calendar, and notifications from Teams will be muted during this time.
- Communicate Your Focus Time: Let your team know about your scheduled Focus Time so they understand when you’ll be unavailable and why. This encourages respect for your time and helps set a culture of prioritizing focus across the organization.
Tips for Maximizing Focus Time
- Start Small: Begin by scheduling one or two blocks of Focus Time each week. As you experience its benefits, you can increase the frequency.
- Set Clear Goals: Before your Focus Time begins, decide what you want to accomplish. Whether it’s drafting a strategy document or analyzing key metrics, having a clear objective ensures the time is well-spent.
- Turn Off Other Distractions: Close unnecessary browser tabs, silence your phone, and minimize interruptions from other apps during your Focus Time.
The Bigger Picture
Scheduling Focus Time isn’t just about personal productivity—it’s about setting an example for your organization. When your team sees you protecting your time for strategic work, they’re more likely to follow suit. Over time, this can foster a culture that values deep work and minimizes distractions, amplifying productivity across the board.
Conclusion: Take Control of Your Time
Your schedule doesn’t have to be dictated by endless interruptions. By using the Focus Time feature in Microsoft Teams, you can reclaim control, prioritize what matters most, and lead by example. Start today—your most important work is waiting.
