Top 9 Ways to Maintain Your Focus

Distractions are a fact of life for many. With distractions at our fingertips, it’s hard to stay on task. As focus waivers, productivity dips. Here some ways to stay focused and productive.   

Set short term goals:

You are pursuing your life’s dream, say clearing a national level exam. Approaching it holistically may prove counterproductive. Rather, divide your overarching goal into short term goals with realistic targets. That’ll help you maintain your focus and motivation in the long run. 

Ward off distractions:

Distractions come in all shapes and sizes. It’s up to you to identify distractions and keep them at bay. You can seek solitude in a library, room or secluded outdoor location where you can study undisturbed. If possible, keep your Smartphone switched off for the entire study duration.    

Embrace Mono-tasking: 

Multitasking might seem to be a great idea for people with tight schedules. But it doesn’t pan out well at all times. When you juggle many tasks simultaneously, focus recedes and so does productivity. The bottom line here is mono-tasking. It’ll help you focus better and longer. 

Apply mindfulness: 

A growing body of research links mindfulness techniques like yoga and meditation to better focus. These techniques calm your mind and keep you alert. You not only end up concentrating better on a given task but also reducing memory loss and mental issues related to aging.

Break the monotony: 

A tired mind finds it hard to concentrate. Here, a well-timed break can do wonders. Post break, your focus and motivation are restored, and your creative juices start flowing again. As soon as mental fatigue sets in, just switch tasks or take a stroll in your garden or play with your pet.   

Exercise often: 

Studies suggest that people who exercise often enjoy better concentration levels and enhanced learning potential. The physical exertion helps develop the part of the brain that’s linked to memory control. Plus, exercise helps you steer clear of stress, anxiety and negative emotions.

Eat right: 

Just like your physical health, your mental health also depends on how healthy you eat. When you are underfed or overfed, achieving the desired concentration levels is virtually impossible. Your go-to food options are caffeine and sugar. Eat them in moderation to avoid consequences. 

Sleep well: 

The mind needs sleep to recoup. Keeping it devoid of sleep means low concentration levels, struggling memory and depreciating motivation. Ensure you take 7 to 8 hours of sleep daily. 

Start early: 

Our brain is fresh in the morning. As the day progresses, the energy and concentration lower gradually. It’s imperative to start early and make the most of your peak concentration levels.