8 Ways to Improve Your Focus

Microsoft says the average American has an 8-second attention span.  I don't know if I agree with that statistic, but I do agree that it's getting shorter and shorter.  Within this new digital world, our attention does get pulled in various directions.

I found the below 8-Ways to improve your focus at the following link:  8-Ways  ... The author writes the following ways, and I add some excellent commentary, if I have to say so myself.

1. Prepare your brain for the task

2. Understand where your focus needs to be

3. Unplug for 30-minutes a day

4. COFFEE

5. Check the thermostat

6. Turn on some music

7. Take short breaks

8. Doodle

Before you do anything you need to prepare.  Make sure you have the material for review, your typewriter ribbon is new (just checking to see if you're still reading).  Remember that, proper planning prevents poor performance.  You don't get up one day and run a marathon, you need to plan and prepare for it.

FOCUS

Understanding your focus, is another way of saying prioritize it.  Focusing on something unimportant to your goals and ambitions is difficult.  If it is part of your dreams, it's easier. I teach an entire seminar on goal setting, and this is one of the key points.

I'll skip unplugging - that is a given, just pull the plug for a while.

COFFEE - Although there are no proof that coffee improves the memory, there is an improvement in cognition.  So, have a boost of energy, and let it work its magic.

Checking the thermostat is a must ... YOU need to be comfortable.  Helsinki University claims the best number is 71 Degrees.

At first when I read #6 I disagreed.  But, when I think about the times I am most focused, writing my blogs, books, lectures and speeches, I have music going on in the background.  Of course it can't be too loud, it needs to be something you like, but try it ... My kids dos all their homework with a set of headphones.

Taking breaks is a MUST.  I've read about this in numerous areas.  Even my new Apple Watch tells me to get my butt up every 50-minutes.  I've heard breaking tasks down to 90-min increments and then taking a 10-15 minute walk is a great idea.  Finding the right formula is personal, but it's important not to attempt it all at once. Remember, you will eat an elephant one bite a time.

LOVE #8 ... Doodling.  It's amazing what I find drawn on my notepads when I listen to a lecture.  Am I trying to visualize what I'm listening too as well?  Not sure, but I think this is #8 because it's of least importance.

Having trouble focusing?  Contact Me with your concerns, and let's find some time to focus on your issues.