Like
most things in life, it's possible to improve your concentration if you decide
that's what you want to do. Indeed, the mere act of focussing on your
concentration could be enough to shift the balance but often you need to do
more. Check out these tips to help improve your concentration.
1. Decide what to concentrate on
You
can't spread your attention too thin which means that if you haven't got a
focus, you simply won't be able to concentrate on the most important item
whatever that is at any moment in time.
So set
a few moments aside to work out precisely what it is that you want to place
your full concentration on for the time being.
2. Set a time limit
You've
probably got a good idea of your current attention span.
Obviously
if it's measured in seconds like a teenager then you'll have to increase the
time limit before it can be effective. But regardless of that, set yourself a
time limit.
This
has a couple of advantages. Firstly it means that there is an end already in
sight, which can stave off your desire to focus on the next shiny penny.
Secondly it means that you can set aside that amount of time to concentrate on
the important task that you've homed in on.
3. Reward yourself
Allow
yourself a small reward when you actually achieve the task of concentrating on
something for the amount of time you've decided.
It could
be a quick video game, it could be an edible treat (but careful that doesn't
wreak havoc with any diet you're on). You'll know what will incentivize you to
complete your chosen task without straying from it and whatever the outcome,
deliver the reward if and only if you've concentrated on the task for your
allocated time. No cheating!
4. Do it now
Quite
often we'll put off a task at the slightest provocation.
So long
as it's appropriate, start concentrating on your task now. If it's not
appropriate, take the necessary steps to get yourself in the right place.
Don't
allow yourself time to procrastinate and make up excuses as to why you can't do
the task.
You
probably already know which one of your stock excuses you're likely to apply -
it's too late in the day, I'm not a morning person, and so on. It’s a bit like
the plane in the Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy that was put into suspended
animation because they hadn't got any refreshing tissues. Don't let yourself
use petty excuses!
5. Take a break
This
may sound like the opposite of concentrating but actually you will find that
taking a short break every now and then will give you chance to assimilate the
things you've been concentrating on and will actually make the task easier and
maybe even enjoyable.
So maybe
take a brisk walk before you start then a coffee or water break about an hour
into the project or go for another walk or something else to help you break
state after another hour. Work out a routine that allows you to be at your best
mental ability as much as possible. You'll find that it helps you to improve
your concentration almost without effort.
