In our fast-paced world, it’s hard to keep our attention in one place. Training to be better focused on the task at hand is an invaluable skill that everyone should strive for.
Many people constantly experience a lack of focus, and it is negatively affecting them. They lose focus and turn their attention elsewhere. How can we expect to be productive and efficient when we can’t focus on what’s in front of us?
Your focus is your current center of interest or activity. It is what your mind is currently set to and how attentive we are towards it. Our focus is important because it is what we set our attention and effort to. Scattered focus equals scattered thoughts equals scattered results equals getting nothing done.
Being focused contains benefits that extend beyond just being able to get things done. By being focused, you have better decision-making. You will also encounter enhanced productivity and efficiency.
Eliminate Distractions
Easier said than done. Temptation is a strong thing. Eliminating distractions will help you to keep your focus in one place. Find an environment that limits distractions. This may mean a cleaner area, or one that is quiet.
When considering the most time-consuming distraction, most will think of their phone. I fall victim to this myself. Giving yourself intentional phone breaks is a great way to give in to your craving without sacrificing too much time. 5-10 minute intervals should satisfy your craving. Try to keep your phone on silent and remove all cues that will drive your attention to your phone.
Avoid Multitasking
It may feel productive. However, multitasking can hinder your focus. It divides your attention to multiple places. You constantly switch your attention from task to task. Multitasking essentially generates distractions as you work. It can also compromise the quality of your efforts, as you are not giving 100% to each task. Giving your full effort and focus to one task at a time is the best way to ensure quality.
Check Your Posture
A good posture helps you to be more attentive on the task at hand. Feelings of calmness and confidence allow you to think more clearly as opposed to an improper posture.
If we want to get technical, then lets talk about how your posture can affect your oxygen intake. A slouched posture can hamper your oxygen intake, which can lead to brain fog and fatigue.
Improve Your Intake and Exercise
I will forever and always be an advocate for proper intake and exercise. It is one of the best investments you can make for yourself. A balanced diet and hydration help to maintain optimal cognitive function. Fuel the brain with foods that help to maintain energy levels and moderates blood sugar. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- High-fiber foods
- Foods with healthy fats
Avoid foods that can cause a quick spike and a quick dip in your energy levels. It is also wise to avoid sugary drinks and foods, caffeine, and added sugars.
Along with your intake, exercise plays a vital role in your ability to focus. Get the body moving. Harvard Health suggests that working out can release chemicals in the brain that directly affect your focus and concentration.
Meditation
The focal point of meditation is focus. Meditation or other practices of mindfulness can strengthen your mental well-being as well as improve focus. During meditation, your brain achieves a state of clarity and experiences a sensation of relaxing. Not only does meditation reduces stress and anxiety, but it also improves your memory and attention span.
Thank you for reading! Hopefully this article has helped you in a favorable way. Check out our other posts.
