Posted March 23rd, 2022
By Kris Powers
On a really tight schedule? Or maybe you work from home and there are constant distractions? You have a deadline for work due Friday, you blinked and now it’s Wednesday! Life can creep up on you, but if you can improve your focus, you can meet those deadlines. Below are a few suggestions that work wonders for beating distractions.
Instead of medication try meditation! Naturally prepare your mind for focus. Meditation can include deep breathing exercising throughout the day, or a more formal break in the middle of work for a quick refresh.
Designated work areas are critical in maximizing your focus. Get into your space and allow for some private work time. The clean and comfortable environment will help you focus and complete your tasks.
Taking a 10-minute break in between long periods of work helps to clear your mind. When you come back you can have a fresh view of what you are working on.
Sleep will also keep your mind sharp and help you focus. A good night sleep is key, but if you’re tired, try and get a 30-minute nap in to refresh yourself. Lack of sleep slows down reflexes and decreases your want or ability to finish tasks.
There are concentration exercises to keep your mind sharp. Try a sudoku, crossword or puzzle to help your mind focus in on a task. Even doodling can shift your focus onto one task. Results of a 2015 Study of 4,715 adults suggest spending 15 minutes a day, 5 days a week, on brain training activities can have a big impact on concentration.
Exercise helps wake you up and energizes your body. Just a quick walk around the neighborhood can help. Exercise also helps naturally stimulate our brains.
Coconut oil improves memory by supporting the health of the neurons in your brain. It provides energy to neurons so they can function. Coconut oil also helps protect neurons by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
Coffee/Earl Grey Tea or green tea - caffeine is a stimulant which affects our central nervous systems. It helps our body produce dopamine which helps us focus and concentrate. It definitely helps with an energy boost on the days you lack it.
To reduce distractions – try to work during the slower times of the day such as nap time, while children are at daycare, early morning before others awake, or later in the evening when all might be quieter.
Learn more about how to gain focus and improve productivity here.
