In a time of next-day deliveries, 15-second videos, and immediate gratification, we can sometimes forget that some things do take time. Being able to stick to one task for a long period is a struggle for many. A long list of to-dos can be overwhelming, and that can cause one to multi-task. Contrary to popular belief, multitasking isn’t the umbrella solution to clearing your to-do list. For others, their attention span just isn’t the best, making it hard to stick to a task.
In a busy world full of distractions, it can be hard to concentrate. But this doesn’t mean that getting stellar concentration isn’t attainable. With patience, practice, and discipline, our brains can be malleable and trainable. We can do anything we set our minds to, as they say.
It might take a while before you complete your degree or have your contractor license ready for renewal. But before then, Here are some tips to improve your focus for work, study, and other daily activities:
Get Some Regular Exercise
We all know that exercise offers a number of health benefits for both the mind and body. Many health professionals almost never fail to mention the importance of regular exercise and with good reason. Regular exercise is even recommended to people diagnosed with ADHD since it also helps improve their concentration. Regular exercise can even help improve memory in older adults.
Exercise Your Brain
Just like your body, your brain needs some exercise too. Although the brain is used and required for work, decision-making, and other day-to-day functions, exercising its concentration power is essential too. Engaging in games such as chess, crossword puzzles, and other games that get you thinking is a good way to exercise your focus. Additionally, these games also develop a person’s problem-solving skills.
Take a Break in Nature
Have you ever noticed how refreshed you feel after coming home from a stroll in the park? Or how we see glamping, a day at the beach, or any other outdoor activity to be the ideal break? It’s natural for us to seek nature when we’ve been away from it for too long. In fact, nature has the ability to restore a person’s cognitive resources, resulting in a refreshed mind that enables effective concentration and focus. So even if your fishing trip yielded no catch for you, it’s still a productive rest being with nature.
Switch Tasks When You Get Stuck
Maybe it’s boredom, or maybe it’s the strain. But sometimes we’re just unable to move on and finish a task as soon as we want to. While we may want to finish a specific task before moving on to the next one, our brains occasionally become stuck and want something new to focus on. Instead of fighting it, listen to your brain. It is its way of telling you that the mental strain is no longer productive and its yielding zero results. Save time and switch to a different task, or take a break. Once you’re ready and well-rested, go back to the original task and complete it.
Create a Space Only for Work
If possible, have a designated space for doing work. Although not everyone can afford office equipment like an ergonomic desk, noise-canceling headphones, desk organizers, and more, at least give yourself the bare minimum to make a workstation conducive to work. Provide yourself with a quiet, comfortable, well-ventilated, well-lit, and clutter-free workspace. Keep it away from any distractions as much as you can.
Sleep on Time
Have you ever had days when you just can’t shake that groggy feeling after waking up in the morning? Maybe a second cup of coffee will do the trick, but it’s not a long-term and permanent solution. As many might know, lack of sleep can make you easily distracted and forgetful. Although all-nighters may be required from time to time, at least get enough sleep on most nights. Not just enough sleep, but sleep on time too. The recommended hours of sleep for adults is seven to eight hours. Adjust your sleeping schedule to accommodate this.
Feeling overwhelmed or getting distracted is nothing to blame yourself for. We all have our good and bad days. On some days, we excel in all the things we’re supposed to do. On other days, we’re only able to manage half of the usual workload. Productivity looks different on some days, and that’s okay. As long as you’re doing yourself right by changing unhealthy habits, resting well, and doing your best, there’s nothing to worry about.
