If you’re struggling with productivity, numerous variables could be at play. Pinpointing the source behind your lack of focus can help you get back on track in school, work, hobbies, or other important tasks. Additionally, following our tips can help you focus when no underlying issues seem to be at play.
Read ahead to learn how to focus when you’re struggling with productivity.
Find a Work-Life Balance that Works For You
If you find yourself struggling to stay productive at work, you may need to adjust your work schedule.
For example, some people experience their best productivity levels in the early mornings, while others excel at nighttime work. Understanding this critical insight about yourself can give you an understanding of when you should strive to complete the bulk of your work.
Remember that this time of day may change over time, so it’s wise to stay attuned to your body for the best focus.
In addition to working with your body’s time preferences, remember to take weekends seriously. Put your phone away, don’t answer emails, and try to stay in the present. Doing so can enhance your focus when you do return to regular work hours.
Identify the Distractions Preventing You From Focusing
Distractions almost always pull you out of the grove you’re trying to stay within. To start, identify any distractions that disrupt your flow. Make a list of these distractions so you can reflect on how you may avoid them. Common distractions include but are not limited to:
- Cell phones
- Televisions
- Social media notifications
- Loud environments
- Clutter
All these distractions are blockades to staying focused. One of the most common that many people struggle with is social media. After all, it’s pretty tempting to head to your Facebook account with the touch of a finger.
However, mindless scrolling and checking app notifications during the morning or lunch takes valuable time out of your day and throws you completely out of focus. A quick fix is to turn your phone on do not disturb mode, turn off notifications, or place your phone out of your current work area.
If noise is a problem, primarily if you work from home, try to get work done in the early mornings before anyone else wakes.
Take Short and Effective Breaks
No one should work all day, every day, without any form of breaks. When you neglect taking breaks, you risk burning yourself out.
There are plenty of ways to promote breaks throughout the day. For example, the Pomodoro technique splits work into 25-minute chunks. Then, after each 25-minute workload, you take a five-minute break.
You can do this timing yourself or rely on timers that keep track of time for you, like Pomofocus.io.
If you’re on a computer for work, find time to get distance from the screen by taking a brief walk or timed lunch with a co-worker. Aim for three breaks throughout the day, like morning, mid-day, and evening. Doing so will structure your current routine and give you time to recuperate before returning to work.
Celebrate Your Accomplishments
Do you find it hard to celebrate your accomplishments throughout the work week? If so, it’s time to slow down and recognize your achievements. Some achievements worth celebrating include the following:
- Turning in a team project
- Getting positive feedback
- Receiving a raise or promotion
- Submitting assignments
- Getting tasks done you’ve been procrastinating
These accomplishments, whether big or small, deserve positive recognition upon completion. However, to celebrate the fulfillment of these tasks, you must first have a task list.
This way, you have a list of things to focus on rather than feeling scatterbrained about where to begin. Doing so keeps your tasks streamlined and further aids your focus.
Connect With Others Who Are Struggling With Productivity
Maybe it would help to see that you’re not alone in struggling with how to focus. If so, it’s worthwhile searching for a therapist near me.
In addition, mental health professionals can help you understand any underlying mental issues that may impact your productivity. For example, you may have undiagnosed attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
For empathetic virtual therapy sessions to learn how to focus, contact Breaking Dawn Therapy at (734) 457-1253.
