Improve Your Mental Focus

Everyone has been there. Your to-do list is a mile long. You sit down to get to work, but your brain just doesn't want to turn on. The more you try to force it, the more your attention wanders. For some, this is just an every once in a while type problem. For others, it can be an all-day, everyday struggle. The modern world is full of distractions. Even if you love what you do, there is always something more interesting you could be doing with your day. You live in a world where the next notification is just a second or two away. All of your devices are constantly begging for your attention. So how do you cut through the digital clutter, overlook the flashing lights, and make your brain get to work? Improving your mental focus is as simple as "practice makes perfect." By creating a clear plan and establishing healthy habits, even the most distractable mind can cut through the fog and be productive.

1. Identify Clear Goals The first step is to identify what you need your focus to be on. When you don't have a clearly defined goal, your mind will wander. Give your attention something to use as an anchor. Sounds simple, right?. Sometimes defining goals is simple. Report A is due to the boss by 2 pm, which is the morning's only goal. But when you don't have a hard deadline for every item on your mile-long list, defining the goal can get complicated.