How to Stay Focused on a Task
I’ve experimented with a lot of different ways to dial in my focus to get the most done in the shortest amount of time. Why? Because that leaves more room/time for other things, like FUN for example. The context of this is for writing, but could apply for anything you can do on a computer or sitting at a desk. I like lists.
1. Using a timer. I typically set a timer on my iPhone for 33m. I know, it’s a weird time. Setting a timer seems to have a very powerful affect on my psychology. Once the timer is going I am working against the clock. The timer forces me to stay away from silly bullshit like facebook, twitter, youtube, email, and the other endless distractions available, thanks to the internet. When a mental butterfly takes flight, instead of running off to email to send that message I forgot about, I’ll keep a notepad file open. In that file I’ll simply jot down the thing that came up and return back to writing or whatever it is I’m doing. The timer also gives you a way to quantify what you did. To make the timer even more powerful, I’ll note down how many words I wrote in that time sort of as a performance guideline.
2. Keep going even if you’re stuck. If I don’t know what to write, I’ll write: “I don’t know what to write next. so a guy does a thing then so and so dies.” There seems to be something powerful about physically doing the thing that needs to be done even it’s coming out like crap. Eventually the crap will turn into polished crap, then flowers emerge.
3. Taking timed breaks. I like 5 minutes. Keep jotting down those ADD urges and bottle them up because once that timer goes off you can allow your ADD internet addicted-self free. Purge those demons. Go watch a youtube video, mindlessly scroll through twitter and facebook. Then once the break timer goes off, reset it and dive back in. Why user a timer for breaks? Well, as we all know the internet is black pit and it’s easy to get lost in there. The timer is your trail blaze out.
4. Move. Do pushups, situps, air-squats, lunges, stretch. Move your body during your breaks. It’s good for you and your brain. It really adds up too! 20 squats a few times a day can easily add up to over a 100 with minimal feelings of exertion.
5. Drink water while you work. Most people don’t drink nearly enough. Your urine should be about the color of straw. If it’s darker than that, you likely need more water. It makes a huge difference in your energy level.
6. Eventually you’re going to hit a point of diminishing returns in your cycle of breaks and working. At some point you’re going to need a longer break. Take the break, do something else for a bit before coming back to work. I suggest walking outside. Grinding through can work sometimes, but in the long run I’ve found it doesn’t pay off.
I hope this stuff helps you with staying focused. Please let me know by leaving a comment if you found this useful and what you do to enhance your focus and productivity.
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