Our brain can change throughout our lifetime, in relation to factors like behavior, process, and environment. It means we can still improve ourselves with strategic and incremental changes to our daily routines. For example, you can increase your ability to focus for more extended periods of time by training your attention.

Higher cognitive performance

Self Improvement

To improve your mental ability, you have to understand its natural peaks and drops throughout the day. It can be different for every person, so pay attention to what time of the day your mind is functioning at its best.If you find it difficult to see what time of day your mind is functioning best, keep a productivity log. At two-hour intervals, write down your physical and mental status. You'll find a pattern of peak performance or sluggishness.

Find your internal rhythms

Time Management

Most people have little pockets of time throughout the day, between meetings and calls and emails, with 15 minutes here, and 30 minutes there. To perform at your best depends on simple time management hacks.<ul><li>Set aside one or two times a day to check and respond to all your messages and emails, then close your inbox.</li><li>Try and structure your day in one-to two-hour chunks of focused work.</li><li>Introduce a clear protocol for colleagues to contact one another in case of an actual emergency.</li></ul>

Multitasking is a myth

Our brains are continually changing and learning, making it possible to change and manipulate depending on what we're exposed to.Think strategically about what environment you work best in and protect yourself from any other distractions that could decrease your performance. Intentionally create an environment to do specific types of activities. That way, your mind has a preset expectation associated with each situation.

Build new associations

Self-care is vital for proper mental function.&nbsp;<ul><li>Get plenty of rehydration, a healthy diet, and regular exercise to keep blood flowing to your brain.</li><li>Eat healthy snacks throughout the day to keep your energy levels consistent.</li><li>Get enough sleep.</li><li>Work hard and play hard. Work hard at work, but then have intentional off-periods where you're relaxing and rejuvenating.</li></ul>

Feed your mind

Is escaping the stranglehold of Wi-Fi the new freedom? Between the constant stream of emails, Slack messages, Airtable tasks, Google Docs, iCal alerts, videoconferences, and everything in between, working in the digital age has spread us all a bit too thin, sending us on high alert at all times of day.