Distractions are a part of daily life. They are everywhere around us, be it the constant pinging of notifications on our phones or Netflix updating new episodes weekly of our favourite shows. These minor or major interruptions in our daily lives do end up harming our productivity. Undoubtedly, it is difficult to get rid of distractions in our surroundings. Most distractions are also not in our control, but how we deal with them is in our control. This kind of focus doesn’t happen overnight; it takes practice and determination.
Here are some tips which may help you deal with distractions and take control of your life:
1. Plan and Organize your Life
Organisation, in general, is a very useful skill. In any aspect of your life, it helps in gaining control and sorting out your lifestyle. Whether it be organising your schedule according to your priority list or sorting out your workspace, this decluttering helps in building control and concentration.
Plan out the next day. Make to-do lists and ensure that they are feasible. Multitasking is just as counterproductive as getting distracted. Use time-management techniques to prioritise tasks as utilising the time you have efficiently is very important.
2. Get Rid of Distractions
Now, it is not possible to get rid of all distractions in our surroundings. It is, however, possible to minimise our exposure to some of them. For example: keep your devices silent when you are working or studying. Ask your friends, colleagues, and family to not disturb you when you are working on something important.
Give yourself strict deadlines to diligently follow. If you have an important project or exam season coming up, leave any streaming site temporarily to fully concentrate on your goals. Set timers for social media applications to remind you to stop using them after a while. These small steps can truly help you concentrate.
3. Visual Reminders
At times, there is a need to remind us of our goals. Using little sticky notes with motivational quotes or simply just reminders of your to-do list can be very helpful. Writing down your to-do list or sticking up your exam schedule before you can help you focus as these cues remind you of what to do.
4. Take Regular Breaks
Overloading information or overworking yourself is counterproductive in the long run. Your efficiency drastically reduces if your brain isn’t fresh enough to grasp and understand what is being taught. You would take more time to assimilate information and produce the same results. Taking breaks rejuvenates your mind and keeps you up on your feet.
Getting away from work or studying for a while can refresh you. Take small breaks, maybe just a short walk, or simply watch a relaxing video on YouTube. These aren’t distractions; they retain and perform better. Take timed breaks when you need them and get back to work afterwards; it does help you.
5. Reward Yourself
Remember that working or learning is not a punishment. It is a process that can be fun. A very good way to deal with distractions would be to include them as end rewards. Instead of treating them as something negative, treat them as positive rewards in your life. Maybe after completing a particularly hard work session or study session, treat yourself by watching an episode of your favourite show.
Have a good chat with your friend or family member. Use these distractions as direct motivators and incorporate them into your life rather than completely remove them.
Dealing with distractions can be difficult but with these tips, it is much easier. Try them and improve your focus!
