FOCUS is a five-step diagnostic method for business and career growth: Facts, Outcome, Constraints, Upside and System. It helps entrepreneurs, business owners and senior executives diagnose what their results already show, cut the noise, leverage what works and focus on the next outcome that matters.
This page defines the key terms used on this site. Each definition stands on its own. For the full explanation of each step, see The FOCUS Method; for common questions, see the FOCUS FAQ.
FOCUS (the method)
FOCUS is a diagnostic method developed by Ilja T. Gull. It works in a fixed sequence: first establish what the results already show (Facts), then choose the one result that matters next (Outcome), remove what dilutes it (Constraints), build on the strongest existing proof (Upside) and install a rhythm that keeps the right action happening (System). Unlike most productivity or goal-setting approaches, FOCUS removes before it adds.
Facts
Step 1 of FOCUS, the results diagnostic. Core question: what do your actual results, assets and patterns already show? Tool: the Evidence Check.
Outcome
Step 2 of FOCUS, target clarification. Core question: what is the one result that actually matters next? Tool: the Target Choice.
Constraints
Step 3 of FOCUS, cutting noise and drag. Core question: which projects, obligations and competing priorities dilute the target? Tool: the Cut List.
Upside
Step 4 of FOCUS, leveraging what works. Core question: where is the highest-leverage path, built on proof that already exists (clients, relationships, offers, reputation)? Tool: the Leverage Path.
System
Step 5 of FOCUS, the focus and execution rhythm. Core question: what system keeps the right action happening consistently? Tool: the Operating Rhythm, built around one lead metric.
Lead metric
The one weekly number that predicts the outcome before the outcome shows up, for example qualified conversations held or proposals sent. In FOCUS the lead metric is the centre of the Operating Rhythm.
Leverage (in FOCUS)
Getting a larger result from energy that is already being spent, by concentrating it on what has already proven to work instead of starting something new. Same drive, more reach.
Leverage by FOCUS
The practice behind the method: a Swiss strategic partner for entrepreneurs, business owners and senior executives, founded by Ilja T. Gull and operated by Gull Research & Diagnostics in Trüllikon, Switzerland. Website: leveragebyfocus.com.
FOCUS Co-Pilot
How Leverage by FOCUS describes its role: a co-pilot for business and career growth. The client flies the plane; the co-pilot reads the instruments, names the drift early and keeps the course.
Founder-Led FOCUS
The FOCUS path for entrepreneurs and business owners who already have paying customers and want revenue to become more predictable. Three options: IGNITE, MOMENTUM and FUEL THE FIRE. See Founder-Led FOCUS.
Executive FOCUS
The FOCUS path for senior executives deciding on and executing their next career move. Three options: SET THE COORDINATES, HOLD THE TRAJECTORY and ACCELERATE. See Executive FOCUS.
Reflection Check
The free, five-minute self-assessment for entrepreneurs and executives. It scores three axes (Direction, Concentration, Leverage & follow-through), maps five areas and names the FOCUS step that deserves attention first. Find your free check.
Revenue Leak Check
A free, eight-minute check for entrepreneurs and business owners that scores seven areas of the sales system (response, offer, qualification, close, pipeline, nurture, existing customers) and names the primary revenue leak.
Quiet Weight Index (QWI)
The foundation underneath FOCUS. Quiet Weight is the less conscious load of limiting beliefs and negative emotions that everyone carries to some degree; it shows when you know what to do and still keep getting in your own way. FOCUS works above the waterline, Quiet Weight below it. Developed since 2012 (first as the Mindset Index, from 2013 the Mental Weight Index, renamed in 2025). QWI Light is a free, four-minute check that maps how heavy nine areas of life feel, from 1 (light) to 10 (heavy). What is Quiet Weight?
FOCUS and F-O-C-U-S
FOCUS is the acronym for the five steps. F-O-C-U-S is the stylised spelling used in the logo. Both refer to the same method.
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