There are distractions all around us while learning. Whether it be the constant pinging of our social media notifications or friends or family members interrupting our work process, distractions are a part of our environment. Our productivity gets significantly reduced when facing such distractions. Therefore, it is essential that we effectively deal with these distractions to maintain a productive lifestyle. Here are some tips which may help;
- Break Down Bigger Tasks into Smaller Parts
Procrastination is a practice that does only harm. One way to deal with this habit is by breaking a large project into smaller pieces. It is much easier to get motivated to complete smaller tasks rather than dealing with a huge one headfirst. If there is a long essay due, rather than approaching it on the last day, it is better to complete the essay bit by bit every day. If a long study session is becoming difficult to concentrate on, dividing the session into 45 minutes sessions and taking a break for 10 minutes could actually improve concentration.
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2. Find the Right Place
Finding a proper work environment or study place is an essential aspect of learning. Different individuals have different preferences; some work efficiently in absolute silence, while others prefer a little background noise. To understand what kind of environment you would like, you can try out different locations like the library or the canteen and see which suits you best.
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3. Turn off Devices
The constant pinging of our social media notifications and endless text messages on our groups are some of the greatest sources of distractions. Switching off the phone or keeping it on “Do not disturb” for the duration of the study session increases focus. Even while using the internet to study, close all the unnecessary tabs. Online distractions can be dealt with by features that put timers on apps.
4. Fulfil Physical Needs
A sound mind lives in a sound body. Our brain’s capacity to concentrate and comprehend significantly reduces if our physical needs such as hunger and proper sleep are not met. Eating a well-rounded meal before sitting for studying or even munching on some snacks or fruits while studying can increase focus. In general, it is important to maintain a proper diet as it ensures the functioning of our mind as well. A proper sleep cycle keeps you fresh and motivated to learn. Sleep deprivation leads to laziness and decreases productivity drastically.
5. Take Frequent Breaks
Working constantly for an extended period is bound to cause exhaustion and burnout. It has been seen that engaging in timed study sessions for 30 to 45 minutes and then taking a short break for around 10 minutes has a greater productivity outcome. Taking breaks and refreshing your mind is also essential in this process. It allows you to focus on the task at hand entirely without getting distracted for the set time period.
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6. Follow a Routine
Organization is an indensible part of ensuring productivity. Making a schedule that suits you and listing down tasks based on priorities is important. Having a set to-do list for the day or the week undoubtedly reduces distractions as the approach towards the listed tasks is more focused. Ticking off tasks from the list also gives a sense of satisfaction and control.
Organization also involves organizing your workplace according to your needs. A messy and unclean space reflects a cluttered mindset; a cleaner and organized workplace is more conducive.
Planning ahead is also a great way to manage the workload and not get overwhelmed. Marking deadlines and adhering to them creates an excellent way to concentrate on your future goals as well.
7. Make Learning Fun
Finally, the main reason why people tend to get swayed away by distractions is that they don’t enjoy what they are learning and doing. Learning new concepts should be fun and not be a burden to study just to get marks on an exam. Incorporating activities or fun games while learning can be helpful. Even quizzing your study mates on topics and teaching each other concepts can be fun. Also, rewarding yourself for a good job done is essential. You deserve a break or a fun hangout with friends after an exam season to rejuvenate yourself.
We face distractions on the path to our goals every day. How we handle and overcome them is on us. It is a process and can take some time, but it is important to take the first step towards trying.
Try these tips and see whether they work for you!
-Anushka Das, Content Writer
