How To Stop Getting Distracted
In this post we will delve into the causes of distraction, how we can reduce and remove those distractions and how to improve our focus and stop getting distracted so easily.
Look Familiar?
Why do we get distracted?
Distraction is avoidance.
Quite often when we are trying to focus on a job or chore that we’re not really looking forward to or have little interest in it’s too easy to become distracted.
This is simply because your mind is looking for an escape. Your bored, uninterested and looking for entertainment whether you do it intentionally or not.
When we get distracted we are unable to concentrate and often find ourselves switching from one thing to the next without ever finishing anything.
The main reason why we tend to get distracted is not only due to having too many distractions around us but also our lack of focus and self control in avoiding and resisting these distractions that temps us.
Those of us who experience conditions such a Anxiety and Depression are more likely to get distracted as they can be linked to lack of self belief and the desire to mentally check out to mask the overwhelming thoughts and feelings.
So how do we remove distraction and get Focused?
How to Remove Distraction and Get Focused
First off we need to become self aware and recognise when we are self sabotaging.
When is it that these external or internal distractions are stealing our attention away from us.
To prevent internal distractions such as over thinking or daydreaming try keeping a note book handy, any ideas, thoughts or jobs you need to do that randomly pop into your head note them down and move on.
Practicing this will help you stay focused by removing the unwanted chatter in your head.
Acknowledge the thought and refocus back to the task.
Studies have proven that by trying to ignore our thought we are more likely to keep thinking about it so let the thoughts be heard but don’t dwell on them.
Turn your phone to silent and keep it out of reach.
How often do you find yourself reaching for your phone for no apparent reason.
All it takes is one notification to pop up and all of a sudden your phones in your hand and your aimlessly scrolling through TikTok for hours.
Set Your Intentions
Be clear with yourself on what you are wanting to achieve.
Having a clear to-do list makes it easier for you to focus on what you set out to achieve and harder for you to convince yourself otherwise.
Prioritize your time
Set a schedule and plan how you will use your time. Think about what tasks are most important and what’s a realistic time frame to complete it.
There’s no point setting unrealistic standards or pilling up tasks, it will lead to disappointment so be honest with yourself and make it manageable.
Set Boundaries
Make it known you are unavailable and need to concentrate.
Let people know when you are working, Studying or whatever else it is you need to get done whilst avoiding distraction to eliminate temptation to check your phone or change your plans to avoid doing the work.
Use These To Improve Focus and Remove Distraction
My Top Two Recommendations would be these:
Must read recommendation
Hands down the best book I recommend you to read is In-distract-able - How to Control Your Attention and Choose Your Life by Nir Eyal.
Currently FREE with a FREE 30 day Trial on Audible.
I would also encourage you to check out their website for the wide range of resources available.
Product Recommendation
Alpha Stim Machine - Not only for supporting anxiety and depression.
The Alpha Stim can be used to support relaxation and allow you to focus your attention and improve concentration.
I have previously used this for focus and to stop my mind wondering, once i found the right setting for me it was brilliant.
These recommendations are based on my own opinions and experiences. Some links may be affiliated.
Improving focus and removing distraction is a valuable mindset to master. For more support, advice and real life check out this post of Improving Focus.
