Ever since the dawn of time man has always struggled with keeping their focus on certain tasks and instead of completing them in a relatively short period of time end up taking much more than what you really need.

Like easy tasks such as walking out the door on time to get to a particular event. Then what happens, the enemy of focus appears “DISTRACTION”.

A very simple example can be like when you are traying to walk out you door to get to a certain appointment and then might see a dirty dish that was not put away and you think, “I will wash it and put it away it will only take a minute and then you end up doing that plus other things that come up as you clean that dish, you splattered the sink with water and you have to dry it out.

You get my drift. Then next thing you know you are running late and rushing. Happens at work or school trying to complete a project then something distracts you. Maybe you get a visitor that requires your attention for a few minutes that is enough to get you off your task then breaks your momentum. Or you get to a point where you have to stop either for a bathroom break or to go get something else you need to complete your work which is not within reach.

Nowadays there are so many distractions that it is tough to stay focused on only one task when there is so much going on and so much information coming your way. However if we could master the power of focus we would be able to do what seems to be incredible things.

There is a term in sports called “THE ZONE” where athletes perform at the highest level and they make everything look so easy, they are able to make every shot, pass, seem like they can see the future. Or you might see it in other activities, one that really impresses me is the people that can solve the Rubix cube in a few seconds.

Of course you need practice and skill but when you are able to focus on a task for longer periods of time it is remarkable on what you can do. Some of these things might seem superhuman when its only focusing on a task. Now it’s easier said than done if it was as easy to say lets focus we would all be very efficient and effective. However, we need to practice focus.

• Practice meditation: Starting with a few minutes a day to help you improve your focus. Don’t expect to clear your mind the first time work on that little by little.
• Get plenty of rest: The less rested you are the more restless you will be and try to find other thigs to keep you engaged but away from your task.
• Set goals: What do you want to accomplish so you can have that thing to look forward to.
• Plan: Determine what you need to accomplish your task and have ready whatever you need to perform your task. Depending on the task, have everything within close reach or access.
• Give yourself space: Determine your space where you can perform your task and maybe let people know that you are working on a task. If you are in an office or room, close your door and might have a sign telling others you are busy.
• Avoid distractions: Eliminate other factors that might take your attention away such as mobile devices or any other device that is constantly sending you messages. Use the Do Not disturb function.
• Avoid multitasking: Make an effort to do one task at a time and use your skills gained through meditation to come back to task.
• Take breaks: Depending on how long your task is, you might need breaks. Set a specific break time and come back to your space and back on your task. It might take a few moments to get back on task and stay engaged.

Once you get the momentum and you are close or in your “ZONE” stay focused and keep working on your task.

If you get to that point of focus where things seem easier, you will notice that your time is flying and you are being productive.

Lack of focus can cause many things like inefficiency, could cause accidents and other issues. I think it is in our best interest to work on our Focus daily so we can be better versions of ourselves and get more accomplished.

Whatever you do, even when you rest, focus on that so you can take advantage of your full potential.

E.Luna