One of the key factors to succeed in a self-study course, like our alternative executive leadership MBA is the capacity to stay focused while studying the coursework.
Do you have trouble focussing and concentrating while you are working or studying?
Does it feel like the hours and days just fly by while you get nothing done as planned?
Having trouble focusing is a common problem that everyone has to face at some point or another. Often, people have trouble focusing on work because they have so many other things going on in their lives, Their minds is permanently switching from one subject to another when they need a specific task to be done.
Whatever the case may be, there are many ways you can help improve your focus while working or studying. Here are 3 simple tips that will help you:
1) Eliminate Distractions
The best way to improve your focus is to eliminate the distraction that will work to tear your attention away from the task you are working on. While eliminating distractions in and of itself won’t necessarily help you get a perfect focus, but it will make it easier to do so since there is less to take your mind off what you need to be thinking about. Eliminating distractions may be as simple as shutting your door for a while and putting up a “do not disturb” sign.
You may also need to take your personal devices away from your work desk and put them on silent mode for a while. Close email clients and deactivate all notifications (computer / mobile phone), this clearly helps you to stay more focused. Try always to work in a calm environment with minimum noise around. There is time, to work and study, and there is another time to listen to music. Both at the same time, might be a problem…
2) Make a To-Do Lists
There is something about writing down what needs to be done that automatically gives you more chances to get the tasks done.. When you write your tasks down, you can help avoid being overwhelmed and you’ll also then be able to tell yourself exactly what you need to do and in what order. This helps you see the light at the end of the tunnel, plan better your days and learn more by staying focused.
A great way to plan tasks is the Eisenhower Matrix. Here you can see a free introduction video:
The Eisenhower Matrix: Introduction & 3-Minute Video Tutorial
3) Take Regularly a Break
Sometimes we can’t focus simply because we are tired or even burned out. While you may not have vacation time coming up, you can help prevent burnout by scheduling mini breaks for yourself throughout the day. So, if you work for a solid 45 or 60-minute block, give yourself a few minutes off to rest your eyes, stand up, walk or stretch and just take a few deep breaths before getting back to work.
Especially if you are working or studying from home these mini-breaks are very important not only to stay focused but also to stay motivated. Sometimes after an hour of work, just getting yourself a glass of water can make miracles.
9.1.2021 Michel F. Bolle – President MTI