Get Comfortable

We live in an interruption-based culture that can be damaging productivity. Most of the time, notifications from electronic devices only add to the distraction. In fact, many people are so used to getting interrupted at work that when they don't, they actually go looking for one! Distraction and ...

This may allow your mind to let go of interrupting thoughts and get centered on one thing. Consider sitting quietly in a place for three to five minutes a day. Close your eyes and count to 34. T...

"Big fat hairy goals" (BFHG) may be great for motivational speeches, but they don't help anyone focus on getting important things done. Consider breaking down all goals to smaller pieces that can be accomplished more easily. As a result, this may only require focus for a shorter ...

Stuck on the top of my office computer monitor are three words: "Focus, Focus, Focus. " When I have difficulty sticking to a task or want to escape doing it to check email or Facebook, I look at this reminder and repeat those three words out loud. This cue really does help me! 

Delaying gratification can actually help people focus on getting something done. To give it a try, choose the task and the customized reward (food, check social media, call a friend, etc.) before starting as a direct motivator. 

Non-work and screen activities can help free your brain up to focus later on a new task. For at least 30 minutes a day, consider working out, going for a run or bike ride, playing sports, doing puzzles or playing chess

Standing up—or better yet, getting away from the office—can help increase your focus. Taking even a short walk away from work can help refresh the body and mind. Taking a break can help you refocus on the next task upon return. 

According to sleepfoundation.org, healthy adults need seven to n...

Consider writing down two things that must get completed in order for that day to be productive. The reason there are two things is that perhaps the first task takes a shorter time than expected or it has a prerequisite, so it can't be completed. The second task is there ...