Concentration is: ‘taking your mind off many things and putting it on one thing at a time”. However, these days it’s getting more difficult to focus on one thing at a time. Facebook, daydreaming but especially your mobile cause continuous distraction. This is especially frustrating when you have a certain goal, but you can’t seem to reach this goal because of distractions. The steps in this article can help you deal with this problem.

Start with yourself

You can only focus if your basis, both physically as mentally, is healthy. That means: Eating healthy and have plenty of sleep. But also take a closer look at yourself and how you can reach your optimal focus. Ask yourself questions like: When am I the most productive? What helps me to stay focused? What distractors am I vulnerable for?

Concentration hygiene

There is a lot you can do even before you start with the task. A good concentration hygiene is crucial. Choose the spot where you want work carefully. First, it should be clean, well lit and ventilated. Turn your mobile phone off and store it out of reach, this is the main distractor for most people. Some people can concentrate while music is playing, but keep in mind that it can also be a distractor.

Make a plan

After you and your workplace are taken care off, you can start making a plan. Most people can focus anywhere between 20 and 45 minutes. Divide the task you want to complete into manageable pieces. Also, it’s just as important to take breaks in between. This way you work structurally towards your goal while maintaining focus.

Concentration tools

Apps can support your concentration by eliminating distractions or by offering structure in the form of reminders and such. The Freedom app might be something for you if you have difficulties with distractors. This app blocks internet for a certain amount of time. Difficulties with keeping structure? Then take a look at the app Focus Booster, this app breaks tasks into manageable pieces for you. It also reminds you to take breaks in between. Take a look in the Appstore yourself for the app that can help you boost your concentration.

NiceDay: Try to execute the steps from this article and describe in your diary what it does for your concentration.