Do you find it difficult to stay focused while completing even the simplest tasks? Many would agree, the one thing we all have trouble with is staying focused. Whether you’re in school, at work, or doing work at home, it’s difficult to stay on track and diligently get tasks done. Well, you’re not alone, and we’re here to help. Here are some tips on how to stay focused, no matter what the task at hand is.
Set a Timer
Any time you plan to do something, always set a time. Luckily, you can do this right on your smart watch. Then, commit to focusing only on the task at hand for that allotted amount of time. Once the time is up, take a 10-15 minute break, then come back and start all over again. Studies have shown that our brains actually cannot handle more than 90 minutes worth of information at one time. Therefore, try stopping just short of that and see if it helps.
Try Meditation
Don’t knock it until you’ve actually tried it. Meditation is a guaranteed way to enhance your focus since it takes a great deal of concentration itself. Research shows that students who meditated for just 20 minutes a day for four days performed better on certain tests. Imagine what this can do for you and your life. If you can’t seem to make mediation work for you, you can also try yoga or a workout.
Exercise Regularly
For those who need to move, try exercising regularly. Exercise isn’t just good for the body, but it also promotes brain health. This is important for memory capacity and concentration, helping you stay focused in the long run (literally). In addition, regular exercise rewires your memory circuits to improve their functioning, which will improve your results and focus. Try the iFitness Pulse Activity Tracker to count your steps, calories burned, and distance each day.
Minimize Multitasking
You may feel the need to do multiple things at once, but this is actually hurting you more than helping you. When you multitask, you have a lower attention span, memory capacity, and you’re unable to switch from one task to the next efficiently. You’re actually more distracted, which will affect your work ethic. We suggest putting your undivided attention into one task and course at a time, then move onto to the next as soon as it is 100% completed. This will also help keep the feeling of being overwhelmed at a minimum.
Limit Caffeine
If you’re feeling tired, then a cup of coffee or another caffeinated drink can help. In moderate doses, it does boost your focus. Nonetheless, do NOT go crazy. Too much caffeine can give you the jitters, make you feel sick, and reduce your ability to concentrate. Not to mention, you will crash quicker and more easily. Be mindful of the amount of cups you have per day if you want to stay focused while taking online courses.
Take Breaks
We’re not saying to take long breaks and to procrastinate. However, taking brief breaks can actually improve your productivity. Whether you choose to take a walk, shower, or look at your phone, your performance will stay consistent with your work. Furthermore, stepping away from a problem can help you come to a better conclusion. So give your brain a break after obtaining a good amount of information from the course and come back to it when you’re ready.
Train Your Brain
Your brain is actually a mental muscle, and there are exercises you can do to train it to stay focused longer. For example, you should always complete work in the same quiet place away from your bed so your brain knows this is where you focus on work and only work. You can also practice concentration by turning off all distractions and committing your attention to a single task at hand. You want to be really diligent with what you put into those allocated hours.
Develop a Schedule
If you want to stay focused, you should consider developing a schedule. Especially if you're overwhelmed, break down your tasks into smaller ones so they're more manageable for you. Then take out a calendar, whether digital or physical, and plan a time to go through each thing you have to do. The iTouch Air 2 features a calendar at the touch of your finger tips. This way, you’ll be more likely to complete each task because you already have it scheduled in.
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-Gina
