Todd Nesnick
Productivity does not depend on performance, but on what you spend your time and attention on.
Poor productivity is inextricably linked to problems that relate to attention. When we are constantly distracted, we can’t move forward effectively. Add social media to the mix, and keeping your attention on your studies or work for long periods of time seems like a daunting task. In such circumstances, it is important to learn how to concentrate properly.
Many people use new technologies to improve concentration, for example pay for essay. But, unfortunately, most often they are just as distracting. One notification on your phone replaces another, and you’re already replying to messages and going to Instagram instead of studying or working.
Truly productive people “feed” their attention and “starve” any irritants. There are several effective and simple ways to do this.
1. Separate urgent from important tasks
When you have a long list of things to do, it can be difficult to know where to start and what to put off for later. The main rule is that urgent tasks with time constraints should be done first.
Try to notice what external irritants are distracting you, and block them promptly. Over time you will understand what it is that distracts your attention, and you will be able to increase your productivity.
2. Figure out the main distractions
Try a preventive method – identify possible irritants for each task you need to focus on, and eliminate them before you even start working.
If it’s notifications on your phone, put it on silent mode or turn it off altogether. If you risk getting distracted by your favorite show on TV, choose a TV-free room to work in.
Simply put, remove any distractions from your space. No distractions – no limits to your ability to work.
3. Create a healthy work environment.
If you work in an office, ask your coworkers to distract you only for important matters. Put away business papers or any other things you might be distracted by in a desk drawer. This will help you get into a state of maximum focus.
When working from home, have a serious conversation with your family. Explain that you can only be distracted during work hours in case of total force majeure. And try to choose the most isolated and quiet room in the house.
4. Immerse yourself completely in the task.
It is important to remember that stimuli come not only from the outside, but also from the inside. Thoughts of an impending deadline, an argument with your girlfriend, or household chores can be more distracting than endless messages on your phone.
Try to immerse yourself in the right atmosphere while you work – for example, wear headphones if necessary. Do a little experiment and focus your attention on the task, first for 30 minutes, then 40 minutes, then 60 minutes. With each attempt, you’ll find it easier to maintain your attention.
5. Determine the best time to do the tasks
Make a plan for the day with your work tasks in mind. You can start by simply asking, “What do I want to get done today?” Make that your first goal for the day.
Don’t forget to include breaks between jobs in your schedule. And at the end of the day, analyze your productivity and determine what hours you were most productive. This will help you plan for future tasks.
Being able to hold your attention while working is a matter of habit. It takes time and willingness. Start today, and you’ll soon be able to stay focused in any situation or environment.