Now, more than ever, people are finding it more difficult to get their mind concentrated on the task at hand. This is because of the fast paced world we live in. We are often called to multi-task, or, to do a few tasks at the same time. For example, a stay-at-home mom may have to prepare dinner for the family while keeping an eye or listening out for the cries of her baby. An office executive may have to work on a report, while distracted by an urgent meeting or to assist in another area.
Concentration is not a natural skill. It is a learned skill. And it is a vital skill practiced by a martial arts practitioner, a surgeon, an athlete or anyone who needs to focus on a task at hand. But with a focused mind, you can get more done, in a shorter period of time. Here then are 10 steps to better;
1. Try to eliminate distractions. This is often easier said than done. Most times, if you can eliminate 20% of your distractions, you find that you can do the task at hand 80% faster. This is the 20/80 pareto rule. You can unhook the telephone for example, or if your are doing some work on the computer linked to the internet, make yourself “invisible” if you are often pinged for a chat by someone you know.
2. Have everything you need for the task at hand. For example, if you have to write a report, make sure you have all the data, sharpened pencils, books etc on your table. Also have a cup of water or coffee at hand. You don’t want to feel thirsty when things are getting done, only to have to go to the kitchen or water cooler and get entangled in another activity.
3. Have a space that is especially equipped for the work you have to do. That means a sturdy work-table with tools at hand if it is carpentry work you are doing. Or a neat table with ample lighting, a smooth running pen and lots of blank paper, if it is paper work that needs to be done.
4. Have a strong mental or emotional attachment between working and your work area to make concentration easier. Stick a motivation poster on the wall if it helps you perform the task better.
5. Set a specific goal for yourself and reward yourself when that goal is reached. For example, if you are studying for a test or exam, give yourself a break as soon as you reach a particular page or understand a particular concept.
6. Force yourself to be more efficient by scheduling meetings or other interruptions to make yourself work more effectively during a shorter period of time.
7. Eliminate scattered thoughts from your mind. Thoughts are little voices in your head that kills focus. If you find yourself distracted by that argument with your wife in the morning, have a quick chat with someone you know that will cheer you up with trivial talk, like last night’s base-ball game or reality show.
8. Visualize yourself doing the work you are supposed to do. See yourself in your mind’s eye finishing that report, studying that exam or finishing that piece of carpentry work you set yourself to do.
9. Take well-timed rest. A stiff shoulder or a pinched nerve can often distract you. Stop for 5-minute breaks and massage that sore muscle or stretch before continuing. Lie down on your back if possible if you need to relax your back.
10. Practise mindful concentration. Your brain can be trained for short burst of concentration. Pick a spot where you can’t be interrupted for 10 minutes. Count from backwards from 10 to 1. If you sense your mind drifting, start from 10 and begin all over again. Believe me, it’s not as easy as it sounds. With practice, you find that you can WILL your mind to focus.
With better concentration, you’ll find yourself to be a happier, more productive person Your memory will also improve and you stay more centered to finish any task you set yourself up for.
