Fast Fixes To Help You Focus

Distraction – it’s everywhere. In the modern age, it is very rare to see someone that is 100% focused on the task at hand. We work in the office – headset on so we can chat while we’re pulling up the latest report to discuss while also clearing our schedule for Timmy’s soccer practices for the next 17 Wednesdays. We work from home editing our next article before submission while just having to check out the latest flash sale on Zulily because it popped up in your inbox and making a PBJ for little Lily.

Here’s a simple reality: if you can’t focus effectively, you can’t think effectively. The less focus we have, the longer it will take to accomplish anything, thus leaving us with even less free time, which creates a necessity for us to multitask because we have no free time. And the cycle goes on, and on. We just can’t seem to stop. So, how do we take a breathe and focus and why is it so important to do so?

The Importance of Being Focused

Rather than simply taking in information, focus allows us to absorb it. With this absorption our brains can process, interpret and create. The more distracted we are, the longer it takes to complete one task which will prolong the rest. So says Parkinson’s Law – work expands to fill the time available for it’s completion. Don’t you hate working all day, only to realize it’s time to go home but you’ve barely completed your daily workload?

Focus leads to better choices. When you’re distracted you’re apt to forget about certain components which could lead to failure in the long run. Focus leads to drive and persistence which makes your end game even more worthwhile.

How Do We Get and Stay Focused?

Breathe. Easier said than done, but the American Institute of Stress recommends 20-30 minutes of abdominal breathing to reduce anxiety and stress. Don’t have that time (who does?), taking just a few deep breaths can bring you back to center and allow you to focus better.

Find a space. If you can create some sort of dedicated workspace it will allow you to mentally separate from potential distractions. Why do so many offices employ the dreaded cubicle? Despite the elicited claustrophobia, the walls create a secluded space so you are more likely to focus on the task at hand.

Alternatively, while having your own space to work is essential, it is also necessary to take breaks. Get up, move, walk around. If you’re home, or super brave at the office, do 30 jumping jacks. Just get the heart rate going and blood flowing.

Do what your mom always told you and “SIT UP STRAIGHT!” Slouching can lead to laziness and being way too comfortable which could lead to daydreaming and so on. Don’t make me call your mom.

Make a to-do list and prioritize. As mundane as it may seem, crossing off a task can be very rewarding and make you feel accomplished and pumped for your next job.

Finally, make sure you’re not hungry or thirsty. Have fruit or nuts on hand and plenty of water. That way you can keep your mind on work and not on that pack of Oreos that you hid in the bathroom closet so your kid wouldn’t eat them.