Focus, Focus

As we all know, it’s difficult to accomplish anything with a scattered, unfocused mind. With things moving at the speed of light around us these days, we have more responsibilities than ever, yet with the same 8 to 10 hours in our work day. This frustration is something we all encounter at various times, so I’m sure you’ve developed your own tricks for staying on task and ignoring distractions. Here are some reminders and common ways to calm and center your mind:

Meditation is an age-old way to develop concentration. The most difficult part of this can be finding the 10 or 20 minutes a day to just sit and clear your mind. Some people begin their day by rising 20 minutes earlier just so they can spend it in quiet mediation, centering themselves in preparation for the busy day ahead. Meditation can be as simple as focusing on your breath or the birds outside your window, letting no other thoughts interfere with your observations. Contemplating a simple quote or affirmation works too.

Exercise is a very popular way to still the busy chatter going on inside your head. Begin your day with a walk, run or a yoga session. Stay present in the moment of stretching and working out your body and let nothing work-related distract you from the pleasure of this activity. Get out during the day and calm yourself with a walk or lunch-time workout.

Remind yourself of your priorities each day. Once you’re clear about what’s important, you can better discipline yourself to find ways to make time for the people and activities most needing your attention. Thirty minutes spent planning the day ahead and setting your intentions is well worth the effectiveness and peacefulness you’ll feel.

Decrease amounts of caffeine and sugar. These things mess with our energy levels and ability to focus. All things in moderation. Enough said!

Turn off email. Nothing distracts me more than seeing new messages pop up in my inbox. Even a quick glance immediately sends me off in another direction and ruins my train of thought. Have certain times of day for checking and responding to new mail.

Ask yourself this question: “What’s important about that for me right now?” A small business expert asked me this recently, after I described my business and activities to her. It caused me to really get focused and down to the core of what truly is important to me. “Why am I doing this?” is another good one. These are great tools when I feel scattered or overwhelmed and off track.

This week, try out a new idea for focusing and taming the power of your incredible mind. Deliberately and consciously creating your work day makes you more focused and productive and relaxed at the same time. I’d love to hear what tips and techniques you’ve developed for staying focused on what matters most and making the most of your work days!

I welcome your comments. Be sure to visit my website at www.LousbergUnlimited.com for more information on my Career Development Services.