Sign in Subscribe

Optimize concentration & eliminate distractions

THE LAW OF CONCENTRATION

The law of concentration: 1 x 1 = 1 vs. 0.5 x 0.5 = 0.25


This means that if you give half of your concentration to one thing and the other half to other things, the result is even worse, a multiplication of the two (1/4). But if you concentrate on one thing and one thing only, the only result can be ONE = 100%.


Several studies indicate that humans are not good at multitasking. Switching between tasks is stressful and may reduce productivity by up to 40 %. Typically people can concentrate and focus on one thing (e.g. a lecture or a text) for approximately 10–25 minutes. This time may be several times in the flow zone, even hours.

Concentrating on a single thing improves productivity.
Follow these steps to improve concentration:
  1. Plan task completion based on time (e.g. scheduling telephone calls and emails at a specific time and not throughout the day)
  2. Plan task completion based on context (e.g. completing certain tasks at the workstation, on the go, on the phone, while commuting, etc.)
  3. Specify a different function for each device (e.g. work on the computer, entertainment on the tablet and social contacts on the phone)
  4. Schedule the tasks that require concentration
  5. Block the use of distracting applications when you intend to concentrate on one [see next blocks on this module]

OPTIMIZE YOUR USAGE OF COMPUTER

  • Maintain emotions that encourage activity: identify the thoughts that lead you to the state of concentration or the inability to concentrate
  • Solve et coagula – focus and divide your energy depending on the situation
  • Utilize specialized time-tracking programs and identify the behavior patterns that undermine your time management and their root causes. Repetitive routines often create a sense of rush, anxiety and frustration.
  • Use two separate computer desktops equipped with wallpaper modified especially to improve project management.

Also, you want to limit your availability. After an interruption, it may take up to 45 minutes to return to a state of concentration. Such interruptions may take up to a quarter of the working day. If you work in an open-plan office, place a clock on your desk to indicate when you may be disturbed next.

OPTIMIZING EXTERNAL FACTORS

External factors may distract you away from the matter you are focusing on. On the other hand, external stimuli may also improve our ability to concentrate. According to a study, the work of a California office worker is interrupted as often as once every three minutes. Interruptions also cause excess stress and burnout.


Follow these steps:

  • Disable email and instant messaging notification sounds
  • Block the use of social media applications
  • Disconnect the internet when the tasks do not require it
  • Minimize excess noise, e.g. by using noise-canceling headphones
  • Optimize air temperature, oxygen level, purity and humidity
  • Use optimal, indirect full-spectrum light that is similar to daylight
  • Minimize unnecessary human contact that impairs your ability to work