Concentration
Concentration, which is the ability to purposefully and consistently focus attention on a given activity, is considered a fundamental prerequisite for performing what is known as deep work. It is a state of uninterrupted focus, in which we use the potential of our brain capacity to the maximum. The most valuable results of our work come from this effort, and at the same time there are feelings of meaningfulness in what we do. If we are able to fully concentrate on the task at hand, our work will be difficult to replicate, which makes it unique. In addition, it is possible to master complex activities faster than if we perform work only superficially. The good news is that the art of deep concentration can be intentionally acquired and then practiced. Let's now explore how to do it.
The foundations of the ability to fully immerse oneself in work are based on the assumption of creating stable work habits and rituals, as well as effective planning of duties and systematic approaches. If we set a pre-planned structure for our working day that we will be able to follow in the long term, our brain will adapt to the workload and the required pace. In short, it involves building a habit that we will gradually modify into the most suitable form. A regular work rhythm provides us with the necessary energy, so we don't have to waste it on questions about whether and when to work deeply. Among other things, it will help us gain control over spending time and direct attention away from the many distractions seeking our favor.
Tips to improve your work concentration
1. Stable work rituals.
Strong willpower is insufficient from a long-term perspective, you need a daily program in which you consider the following questions:
Where and how long to work (location and specific time frame)?
What will the structure of the work look like after it begins
How to keep going during the process (how to maintain energy for consistent focus)?
How to define the beginning and the end of the ritual?
2. Develop a work habit.
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Focus on what truly matters, achieve fewer, but more important goals.
Goals must be specific.
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Ambitious goals are motivation for the ability to focus.
3. Continuously monitor success in achieving goals according to predefined specific criteria.
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Continuously set smaller goals. By checking off successfully completed individual goals, you increase your engagement on the task and maintain your performance more easily.
Team cooperation on a common task and sharing the current status of completed and incomplete tasks motivates individuals to fulfill their part of the task.
4. Prepare a strategy for ending your workday, known as a shutdown ritual.
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Break away from your work worries. Review your unfinished tasks and create a sequence of specific steps to perform in the following days.
Make a note of the progress to a predetermined location to return later and continue to complete them.
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Set a signal, it can be any phrase, that will definitely close the flow of thoughts about work for today.
5. Focus on the things that work.
6. Strike a decisive blow to unfinished tasks.
Set aside a workday to complete unfinished tasks.
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Prepare in advance everything you will need for work (including refreshments).
Set a precise schedule and goals in advance (be as specific as possible).
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Keep the tasks clearly written down on a list and check off each one as you complete it.
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Take breaks at regular intervals and try to stretch or go for a walk during the pause.
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Treat yourself to a reward for a job well done.