10 Ways to Keep Focused
Energy flows wherever the focus is. This has been true throughout human history, but we now live in a unique time. Smartphones, social media, and selfies are all distractions we face today, and they are always present, and seemingly endless.
If you feel that it is difficult for you to stay focused, you are not alone. Every successful entrepreneur has struggled to stay focused. You may get the morning off to the right start, but at the end of the day you will be tired and unable to stay focused, or you may be easily distracted from your tasks by social media and other temptations, and some days, you may get constantly interrupted by meetings and phone calls. It’s time to learn how to stay focused on goals no matter what they are, and achieve more than you ever thought possible.
Here are some methods to stay focused:
1. Get the day to a strong start:
Start your focus first in the morning by eating a healthy breakfast with plenty of vegetables, good fats, and lean protein. Create an effective morning routine, such as practicing meditation to get you fully focused on your goals for the day. The morning is also the best time to exercise. Exercising will give you more energy and help you stay focused throughout the day.
2. Focus on the outcomes:
“If you have enough reason, you will find a way,” says author Tony Robbins. For example, to learn how to keep going, focusing on goals depends on connecting the task at hand with the ultimate goal in life. How will this task help you reach the outcome you want? Imagine yourself completing the task, reaching your goals, then take a deep breath and do it.
3. Repeat encouraging phrases:
Using phrases of encouragement is a powerful way to reset your mind and keep you focused. Say an encouraging phrase to help you stay focused, such as, “I’m going to put all my focus on this task because it’s going to help me live the life I deserve.” Say it out loud and excitedly, and you’ll focus.
4. Remove distractions:
Are text messages distracting you? Are you tempted to check social media constantly? Mute your phone, put it face down at your desk, then close any distracting apps or websites, and if coworkers interrupt you while you work, put a “please do not disturb” sign or lock your office door.
5. Eliminate bad habits:
Do you have a cup of coffee every time you feel low on energy? Do you smoke when you’re stressed? All of these things work against your ability to stay focused, including having more than one cup of coffee a day. Ditch the bad habits, and you’ll discover how to maintain your focus in a healthy way.
6. Avoid multitasking:
There is nothing worse than multitasking, as you’ll be doing many things badly because every time we switch tasks, we lose focus. That’s why studies have found that people who multitask have worse attention span and memory capacity than people who don’t. Keep focusing on one task at a time.
7. Create a productive space:
You will not be able to clear your mind and focus if the place where you are sitting is crowded and noisy, and certain sounds, such as the sound of cars or people arguing can cause the release of cortisol, the stress hormone, so wear headphones or find a quiet place to work, organize and decorate your workspace in an inspiring way, always work in that place when you really need to focus, and your brain will work fast.
8. Set a plan:
It is not enough to make a to-do list and wish for it to be achieved. You need to set smart, achievable goals every day to help you get to where you want to be. The way to plan is to break down your goals by month, week, and day, and tie everything to the end goal, so you can stay focused.
9. Take scheduled breaks:
Scheduled breaks improve focus by giving the brain a chance to recharge, so make sure you take a break, get away from your desk, go for a walk, or read a book, and if you take the break to check emails or chat about a project, you won’t get the full benefits that come from relaxing your mind.
10. Search for a Coach:
Learning how to stay focused on goals is a process of retraining your brain, and it takes time, and you may experience setbacks. Thus, it is important to have someone with you to help you overcome challenges and to encourage you when you succeed. A coach can give you a new perspective and remind you of your goal, so you can focus on what matters.