Improve Your Concentration
How to Stay Focused Despite Distractions

Do you struggle to concentrate at work?

You're not alone! According to a 2018 survey, 80 percent of team members are regularly disturbed by others when trying to focus. [1]

And, research shows that it takes people around 23 minutes to regain concentration after a distraction. [2]

To give yourself the best chance of staying focused, start by thinking about your environment.

Make sure that you're comfortable (but not too comfortable!)

Put up pictures of natural scenes and wildlife to help you relax.

Shut out distractions.

Nutrition and hydration also play a big part in helping you concentrate. 

Drink water.

Eat breakfast and other healthy snacks throughout the day.

It might sound obvious, but your brain works best when you allow it to focus.

1. Deal with worries before you start work. 
2. Focus on one task at a time.
3. Close your email.
4. Alternate between high- and low-value tasks.
5. Prioritize.

If you still find yourself struggling to concentrate, try these five strategies:

1. Take short breaks.
2. Do your hardest tasks when you're most alert.
3. Turn off notifications and set your status to "busy." 
4. Reward yourself when you reach your goals. 
5. Read your email at certain times.

Follow these tips to improve your concentration and stay focused throughout the day.


References
[1] Udemy, (2018). Workplace Distraction Report [online]. Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/221518077_The_cost_of_interrupted_work_More_speed_and_stress. [Accessed August 26, 2020].

[2] Mark, G., Gudith, D., & Klocke, U. (2008). The Cost Of Interrupted Work: More Speed And Stress. University of California, Irvine [online]. Available at: https://research.udemy.com/research_report/udemy-depth-2018-workplace-distraction-report/. [Accessed August 26, 2020].


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