Finding focus in a Distracted world 99u
October 1, 2018•157 words
Finding Focus in a Distracted World
DEFEND YOUR CREATIVE TIME
Book time on your calendar for uninterrupted, focused work—and respect those blocks of time as you would any client meeting.
FOCUS WHEN YOU’RE FRESH
Tackle the projects that require “hard focus” early in your day. Self-control—and our ability to resist distractions—declines as the day goes on.
KILL THE BACKGROUND NOISE
Turn off your phone, e-mail, and any apps unrelated to your task. Even the presence of background activity (and temptation) can drain your focus.
MAKE PROGRESS VISIBLE
Marking progress is a huge motivator for long-term projects. Make your daily achievements visible by saving iterations, posting milestones, or keeping a daily journal.
GIVE YOUR BRAIN A BREAK
Alternate challenging creative work with more “mindless” tasks to give your brain time to rest and refuel.
TAP INTO TRANSITIONAL MOMENTS
Take a break from checking your smartphone during transitional moments, and open yourself up to opportunity and serendipity.