Seven Ways to Boost Concentration at Work
One of the key factors to business success is the ability to precisely focus on the job. Many of us can admit that it is becoming increasingly difficult to focus at work given so many daily distractions such as social media, constant emails and meetings and stress and anxiety. However, a need to concentrate on the things that are important must be a priority if we are to take our businesses to the next level. There are a number of practical things we can do daily to limit distractions and improve our concentration.
1. Identify What Matters the Most
Focus on the tasks and processes that need to be done that will improve your bottom line and contribute to the long-term sustainability of your business. Apply the 80/20 rule. Many of the important tasks or processes may be the ones that you have been procrastinating on. Focus on these.
2. Pick Your Top 1-3 Tasks Daily
Prioritisation is necessary. At the start of the work day, set aside some time to identify key tasks that you wish to accomplish throughout the day. Choose 1-3 priority tasks to tackle each day. These tasks should be meaningful to your business. Checking email does not count. Focus and ensure that you complete these tasks before the end of your day.
3. Stop Multi-tasking
This is a hard one for many business people, especially sole proprietors. However, it has been proven that if we stick with one task, limit distractions, and complete it before moving on to another task, we are overall more efficient. Focus on one task at a time.
4. Plan More Time Than You Need for Each Task
Planning is key. It is important to specify how much time you will allocate for completing a task before you get started. This improves focus knowing that a timeframe is present.
5. Take Breaks and Reward Yourself
Most of us can only focus intensely for an hour or less. Take a short break every 30 to 60 minutes to reward yourself. Do your best to avoid going on social media, or surfing the internet during your break, as a 5-minute break could easily turn into a 30-minute break. Instead, listen to a song you love or go for a short walk to clear your head and get some exercise.
6. Know Your Limitations
You know what your schedule is like, the amount of work and demands on your plate and whether you struggle with procrastination. Factor all of this into your daily goals and make them realistic. This will help to improve your focus and make you feel more satisfied at the end of the day.
7. Do Your Best to Limit Distractions While You Are at Work
Working with others means that you may be disrupted and distracted during the day. While some disruptions are impossible to avoid, others can be limited. Let co-workers know that during certain times you will be focusing on projects and would not like to be disturbed. Put on headphones to discourage unnecessary chatter and tune out distractions. Put your phone away and log out of social media and email on your computer to improve focus.
We work in a world where there are numerous things competing for our attention. We have to decide where we will put our focus. The success of our businesses depends on it.
