How to Keep Focus for Longer Period of Time
Majority of people who start reading an article won’t even bother to finish reading it, says Nick Carr. This idea is so common these days. The reason is that some people can’t focus on what they’re reading. There are books than can help you, particularly this book from Amazon entitled Getting Things done, the problem is- can you finish reading it? It would probably go to your book shelf and kept unread for a long time, just like what happened to other books of yours. Don’t focus on the wrong thing. Stop worrying about how you will gather the details on what you’re reading; think about how you will keep on reading. Keeping focus is actually a form of survival athleticism- staying on power and being patient just like in a running in a marathon. Another key that can help you is to have a healthy and fit mind.
The brain has the ability to adapt to changes and making new arranges for upcoming experiences, it is called Neuroplasticity. The human brain is not a divine being; it’s a certain part of the body that requires a lot of care. If you care for your brain, the same way you care for other parts of your body, then you need balance diet and exercise. Things like having an empty inbox and eradicating activities and discussions that are not required would surely ease the tension in your brain- thus, keeping you more focus. Remember our attention span is not changeable. Furthermore, don’t train your brain to be easily distracted by little tensions.
There’s an excellent technique that would surely work if you’re aiming to keep focus quickly, it is called Pomodoro technique. What you need is a timer that will tell you when to start, stop and then, continue working. You can start with at least 10 minute work with only 2 minute break. Use a timer, even the timer on your computer would do. Continue doing the Pomodoro technique until you can keep a 35 minutes work with only 2 minute work with Instant Messaging on. Just imagine that you are in a marathon.
Get Rid of Using the Second Monitor The myth of using second monitor has been around for quite a long time. People think that they could quickly finish work if they multitask- through the use of the second monitor. However, this is not really useful at all since you will have two distractions instead of only one. The idea of using a second monitor started at year 2003, by a monitor manufacturer, video card manufacturer and the University of Utah. This notion turned out to be more like a marketing document. The best way is to use one large monitor instead of using two.
Arrange Spaces in OS X There’s an effective virtual desktop on OS X called Spaces, where you can keep your email, twitter and surfing browser all in one ‘space’. This would surely turn out to be an effective tool to keep your focus. Set your pomodoro timer and get into the ‘space’. That way, you have only limited browsing and a text editor to write the article.
Avoid hitting the Cursor or Mouse when typing or working When you are using the ’35 minute work intervals’ turn your mouse off and continue working. That way, you can keep focus on your task when you are avoiding the mouse. Why? It is because the mouse drives you clicking at websites. Working without the use of a mouse is like running on a marathon with a several chicken-wing stop shops. If you won’t continue running you’d surely dive into temptation and won’t reach the finish line. In addition, you can make use of Divvy that will assist you manage the windows without using the mouse and suppose you need to make a few research you can use a software Vimium.
Set-up a Practical Habit You can use your 2 minute break for generating tools for your next projects. You can start with eradicating the task you don’t need for that task to keep you motivated. Close the browsers you don’t need and start with a new one. Don’t simply jump into the new work without setting up the work space properly.
Limit the browse tabs Do the No More Tabs Chrome extension. Limit your browse tabs. That way, you will keep focus on a certain web page and continue working without having a single distraction or problem.
Choose a Suitable Workplace Even though you are working at home, you will still have a variety of distractions. You can listen to instrumental music while working. Furthermore, it is important that you prepare a few light snacks like nuts and beverage. Set up a desk and a comfortable chair. Working at home is much better than working in your office where there are a lot of people to deal with and work with. There are a lot of distractions in the office.
Summary Just like in workouts and staying fit-exercises: focus-trainings vary on people. For instance, it took me 70 minutes researching and writing this piece, which before it take me a whole day. Now, I even have enough time to read lengthy manuscripts which I think I could never do before.
For those individuals who are experiencing difficulties in keeping focus, you could make use of the idea of provigil. Take time to consider using attention fitness regimen or solutions. Furthermore, you could make use of other essential tips, such as:
1. Take one work at a time.
2. Put more effort when doing number one step.
3. Slow down once in a while. You’re not required to finish the attention span marathon in one day.
Train your brain the way you do your body so it will get used to being focused most of the time. Don’t rush, the results will pay off in time.
Photo by Ed Yourdon
How to Focus [InfoVegan]
