Finding focus

Do you ever have one of those days where you just can’t seem to focus on the task at hand? You’re not alone. Remaining focused and finding motivation during independent studying may be challenging, however there are a multitude of ways and practices to train your mind and allow yourself to find focus. Here are some top tips and strategies for fulfilling your potential.

Finding a routine

A routine can positively impact your independent studying by eliminating unpredictability, uncertainty and stress. By implementing a structure to your day, it gives you a sense of control and improves focus. With a routine, you can solely dedicate all of your attention to the study task you are completing, knowing that your day is scheduled well, and you have set a time for every activity within your day. A lack of structure increases stress and anxiety as well as overwhelming feelings, which in turn will cloud your mind and prevent you from being able to focus.

Changing your environment

Changing your surroundings may allow you to make the best decisions more easily, as you set yourself up to practice better habits. Studying in your room may become ineffective over time if there are distractions that do not promote focus, e.g. your TV and your bed. Our environment can influence our behaviours and motivation to act. The simple act of deciding to do your work on your bed greatly disrupts your focus as your mind associates your bed with sleep and relaxation. Promote strict systems in place with designated areas for you to focus and complete your studying. If you are unable to break away from working on your bed or becoming distracted by the TV, visit your local coffee shop or library, places which will force you to focus as there are no distractions.

Do not disturb

This revolutionary feature is a great promoter of focus. Phones are extraordinarily addictive and distracting. Notifications have been designed to stimulate your brain as you associate a message from a friend or an Instagram post with positive emotions. However, many people do not realise that when they are working and hear a notification, which they may not even respond to, in the few seconds you take to check, it then takes you 23 minutes to get back to the same level of focus you had before having checked your phone. Do not disturb is a great and simple way to improve focus while enjoying uninterrupted studying.

Breaks

Focus is greatly improved by taking breaks as it refreshes our minds and eases the stress and exhaustion arising from working for long stretches of time. In turn, your mind and body have increased energy and productivity levels which lead to an improvement in focus during your studying.

Discipline

Motivation is very important when it comes to focus, but it is unreliable. Discipline is what drives a person to succeed when faced with adversity. Discipline keeps us going when our motivation, excitement and positive mindset evaporate. It is very hard to solely rely on motivation as it comes and goes, however if your train your mind every day and remain disciplined, your study habits and focus will skyrocket.