Focusing on the work at hand is a huge task whether it’s studying for exams or life in the office. We found some simple hacks provided by Quora users that are useful in getting your shit done.
1. Involving your emotions
When you know what has to be done and what time your deadline is, ask yourself questions like what’s at stake and what are the consequences should you not finish your tasks in the stipulated time.
2. Note down other pressing matters
While working, keep a pen and paper handy, so you may write down passing thoughts that you can park aside for later. Writing them down can remind you to act on them later after you are done with the work you have at hand.
3. Take breaks
However these breaks must be productive in a way that it enhances your focus. Step outside for a breath of fresh air, meditate and do some activity that gets your blood vessels pumping. As long as your breaks don’t involve a smartphone or something with a screen, you should be fine.
4. Find yourself a special place
If you are in office, choose a corner or area that’s quiet, empty and pretty bare. An empty conference room, or a lounge away from the desks is a good place to migrate to if you can’t focus with noise and general banter from your colleagues.
5. Give yourself a time limit
Challenge yourself by setting time limits to your work. This will help you finish faster and prevent you from getting distracted by trivial things. Set an alarm for 30 minutes (or more) and try to beat the clock!
6. Turn off all communication devices
This includes your smartphone (airplane mode) and apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, GTalk and BBM. Turn them off or turn off the notifications. You don’t need to have conversations while you’re on something. All that can be done later.
7. Make a ‘To Do List’
Jot down all the things you need to get done in the day. Every time you complete one task, tick it off with pride and carry on to the next task at hand.
8. Make it a point to get off your seat
It is vital to get out of your seat every hour and stretch or just walk around for 7-10 minutes, to get your focus on track. If that’s not good enough, take a power nap to recharge and refresh your mind.
9. Eat and drink
Eating light meals and drinking tea help to calm the mind as opposed to heavy meals, coffee and alcohol. Don’t stuff yourself for the sake of fake hunger, but eat when you feel tired or hungry. Eating light several times, is better than eating a lot at once.
