Improve concentration? 5 tips for more focus

We all know the feeling: sitting at your desk with an urgent deadline and a wandering mind. Despite your efforts, things just aren't moving forward. You're motivated to do it, but you simply can't concentrate. That's why we're giving you 5 tips in this blog to significantly improve your concentration.

Ensure a good night's sleep

Sleep is one of our basic needs. Yet, many people suffer from sleep deprivation. An adult typically needs between 7 and 9 hours of sleep per night. If you sleep less than that, there's a good chance your concentration will suffer. Lack of sleep can lead to concentration problems, slower reactions, and a weaker memory. So, if you want to function optimally and concentrate on your work, ensure a good night's sleep. Go to bed around the same time every day, maintain a cool and dark bedroom, and put away your phone before sleeping.

Outsmart distractions

We're exposed to stimuli all day long—phone notifications, email pop-ups, and various other environmental sounds. To improve your concentration, it's important to reduce these distractions. How can you do that?

You can disable notifications for many apps on your phone. Put your phone on 'do not disturb' mode or mute the sound and vibration. Place your phone face down so you're not distracted by the screen lighting up. Even better, keep your phone out of sight to resist the temptation of reaching for it.

Background noises can also be very distracting when you're trying to concentrate. A useful solution is using noise-canceling headphones. They dampen noise and other background sounds, allowing you to concentrate much better.

Take regular breaks (Pomodoro Technique)

While working, it's important to take timely breaks to stay optimally focused. This helps maintain your energy levels, crucial for sustaining concentration. For instance, make use of the Pomodoro technique. It's an easy-to-use method for managing your time and energy efficiently. You work in intervals called 'Pomodoros'—25 minutes of focused, uninterrupted work followed by a 5-minute break. Set a timer, work for 25 minutes straight on one task, take a 5-minute break, and then get back to work.

Maintain an active posture

Your posture can also stimulate your concentration. Your posture affects your mood. Try slouching and you'll naturally feel a bit sluggish. Sit upright, and you're instantly more alert. This often happens unconsciously when you receive an important phone call, for example. You automatically sit up straight or even stand to be more alert in response.

Work from your strengths

It's easier to concentrate on tasks you're good at. So, try to focus as much as possible on tasks where you excel, where you're strong; and delegate tasks where you're less proficient to others. Sometimes it's a bit challenging to identify your strengths. That's why it's good to ask friends and family, which might help you discover your passion and what you'd love to do for work. The beauty of being good at something is that you enjoy spending time on it more, which helps you work more focused.

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