HOW TO FOCUS

No matter where we work- whether it be remote or at the office. We're all exposed to a multitude of distractions daily. 98% of the workforce say they are interrupted at least three or four times a day. But considering the fact that a study conducted at the University of California revealed that it takes almost 30 minutes to fully recover focus after a distraction, that's a lot of precious time wasted.

Here are five things that might help you stay in the zone:

1. Plan your day

Time is your most valuable currency. So just like you would manage your money, you should manage your time. I've personally always been a fan of writing to-do lists.

I usually set aside time every evening before bed to map out my action plan for the next day so that I can start my morning with complete focus.

2. Use time-blocking

I used to pride myself on the fact that I could "multitask like a champion", but jumping from one task to another is actually counterproductive. Blocking time in my schedule for specific tasks has been a game-changer. I set blocks of time to work on important projects, do research, write articles, respond to emails etc.

3. Eliminate distractions

Once you've blocked time in your schedule for all your important tasks, you should then define which of those tasks require your undivided attention. This could mean that you will need to eliminate all distractions for two or so hours. Put your phone on Do Not Disturb mode, distance yourself from other people, close your email inbox, and focus on the task at hand. The fewer temptations you have in sight, the better. We live in a world where we're made to believe that we need to be reachable 24/7, but this thinking wreaks havoc on productivity.

4. Listen to music

I'm about to admit something that might make me sound like a real nerd, but when I really need to focus- it's classical music all the way, baby! But when I need a boost or "pick me up", my playlist is anything but instrumental. Some studies show that music is effective in raising efficiency in repetitive work. So whether you're into soothing sounds of nature or electronic beats, listening to music can help.

5. Coffee:

This one is pretty self-explanatory. But it's worth putting on this list since I couldn't function without it. A good cup of joe in the morning has the ability to raise this tired, working mom from the dead. If you're reading this, go ahead and pour yourself another cup- it has cognitive-enhancing properties, after all ;)

If however, you don't drink coffee, then grab whatever helps you get in the zone.