Many people start projects with good intentions but struggle to stay on track.
Here are a few of the most common concentration busters that throw people off schedule:
- Social media and email. Avoid logging into social media and checking email when you’re working on a project. Consider turning off your alerts and possibly even Wi-Fi. If you feel compelled to check your email, wait until breaks throughout the day.
- Multitasking. While people often think they can accomplish more in less time by
multitasking, they lose time when shifting attention from one task to another. Try to devote your time to one solid project and see how much further you can get.
- Hunger. Remember to always eat breakfast and snack on high-protein items, such as cheese and nuts; and always choose complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains.
- Disorganization. Rather than attacking the day’s projects randomly, take some time to organize your deadlines, projects, and plan of attack. Rank them in order of importance, and always tackle the hardest projects first.
- Cell phones. Utilize caller ID and let calls go to voicemail. Silence your phone so you can have distraction free time.
- Lack of sleep. Most adults need a solid seven to nine hours of sleep each night to fully recharge. If you feel exhausted and tired, your body and mind will benefit from some extra sleep.
- Dehydration. Drink water. Even mild dehydration can cause inattention.
- Clutter. It can be hard to focus on the task at hand in a room full of cluttered items, so try to work in rooms that are well organized and de-cluttered.