Finding focus in a world full of distractions
The Earth has been rotating at an almost constant speed for several billion years. Despite this, the concept of Time (years, months, hours, and minutes) was created by the human species between 5,000 and 2,000 BC. Since then, society has been accelerating its way of life. The most direct consequence of this acceleration is the technological evolution, with a very sharp exponential increase after the industrial revolution.
Currently, it is difficult to maintain focus in the fast-paced world we live in. Every day we deal with global news updated by the second, we are informed of everything that happens immediately, social networks bombard users with infinite content, and we communicate to any part of the world at a speed never seen before. Everything happens very quickly and there is no patience to wait. With all the advantages that this technological evolution brings us, there remains a challenge to be solved: how to achieve focus in a world full of distractions?
If you don't have a good focus strategy, it's hard to maintain productivity levels. It's very tempting to interrupt work to check email, look at WhatsApp groups, open Twitter and Instagram, or get a coffee and end the day without having produced much.
Here are some tips to help you stay focused at work and avoid being absorbed by distractions!
1 - Note the appointments
It may seem like a simple step, but it is the beginning of the concentration process. By writing down the tasks you have to do in a day or week, you are making a commitment and will feel more obliged to complete the list. No matter how small or insignificant it is, write it down. If you don't even bother to fill in the agenda, you will most likely end up procrastinating.
2 - Set realistic goals
When writing your goals, try to make them as realistic as possible. It's not about setting easy targets but rather achievable ones. The fact that you can't complete the stipulated tasks can generate accumulated frustration and decrease your productivity. Good mental stability is essential to maintain focus.
3 - Breaks
Working for hours on end can become unproductive. Knowing when to stop and for how long is very important for a good work routine.
There are different methods to interval work and each person should choose the one that works best for them.
An example of one of these strategies is the Pomodoro technique. The goal is to maintain focus, without interruptions, for 25 minutes and take a 5-minute break. After 4 cycles, take a longer break of 30 minutes. You will notice that during work periods, you have great peaks of concentration.
4 - Time for everything
Finally, try to find time for everything you like and need to do. If you start the day feeling anxious, knowing you don't have time, you will probably try to perform several tasks at the same time - multitasking. This phenomenon divides your attention among the various things you are doing, which is counterproductive. A good night's sleep is essential for having a productive and rewarding day.
In the middle of the routine, find leisure time to dedicate yourself to what you like - watching a movie, playing sports, or reading! It is essential to set aside a few hours for these activities. When you feel that there is a time of day for each thing, it will be easier to maintain focus on each one individually, without trying to rush the commitments!
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