Focus is the personal ability to concentrate on a single task or activity, channeling all your attention towards this purpose. A lack of focus can leave people overwhelmed, forcing them to carry out several tasks at the same time or pushing them to procrastinate and postpone what needs to be done.
Here are 5 essential steps that can improve your ability to concentrate better at work:
Identify Distractions
The first step is to recognize what distracts you at work. This ranges from constant cell phone use and conversations with colleagues to long coffee breaks and social media, for example. How about starting by making a list of what really takes your attention and then looking for suggestions on how to improve?
Take Breaks
Taking time for yourself is a great way to avoid burnout. While steadily completing tasks is important, giving your mind time to recharge and relax can greatly benefit your mental health. Walking away briefly can give you a fresh perspective if you’re stuck on a task.
Taking a break and allowing your brain time to shut down can also give you the momentum you need when you return to work and improve your focus on the task.
Organize Your Workspace for Better Focus
Organizing your workspace is a simple yet effective way to enhance your focus. Start by decluttering your space, as a tidy and organized environment promotes a clearer state of mind. Utilize storage solutions like desk drawers to keep items out of sight and prevent visual distractions.
Consider designating specific areas for different types of work, which can help you mentally transition and stay focused on the task at hand. Additionally, using visual cues such as color-coded files can aid in staying organized and maintaining focus.
Create an Hourly Work Plan
One of the major reasons why most of us lose our focus is not having a proper plan. As a result, our monkey mind unchains itself and we lose our focus. To tame your monkey mind, try scheduling your tasks hour by hour.
It is a great exercise that gives structure to your workday. You know exactly what to do when and what needs to be accomplished at the end of the day.
Creating an hourly plan is a great way to enhance the process of prioritization. It allows you to plan in such a way that tasks requiring more attention or higher energy levels could be accomplished first thing in the morning.
These small changes can help you stay focused and productive at work throughout the day.
Avoiding Checking Social Media at Work
How you relax during your breaks can impact your concentration once you’re back on the clock. Most of us check social media or take a minute to do some online shopping, but this can make it harder to focus afterward. Over 30% of employees say social media is the main reason they struggle to pay attention while working.
Turn off notifications for social media during working hours and avoid the temptation of checking them during your lunch break. Use time off to unwind your mind with a podcast or take a short walk to disconnect.