Why focus is key in an age of distraction

“Modern society pushes you to live in a distracted state.”

How many times have you tried to have a conversation with your child, and you know full well that they are not listening to you? It’s infuriating isn’t it! Our lives seem to be getting busier and busier day by day. It is full of phones, iPads, television, computers and radio.

Those of you who know Darren will know that I have had to get used to talking and discussing issues with him as he walks out through the door! He is totally distracted. However, ask him to multitask and the answer is ‘no’.

New research actually tells us that multitasking is nothing more than training your brain to be distracted. And there was me, boasting that I was a very good multi-tasker.

Bruce Kasanoff, founder of the Kasanoff institute believes that ‘doing two things at once trains your brain to be less effective and less efficient’. Bruce recommends that you use something to remind you to do one thing at a time. Maybe a touchstone or something like it. Another way is when you are feeling distracted, leave what you are doing and take a short time away, preferably on your own, to sit in quietness. When you are feeling more focused, return to the task at hand. Sounds idyllic, doesn’t it. Imagine asking the teacher to leave the class, so you could have a quiet moment to regain your thoughts. Or adults asking to leave a meeting to gather your thoughts every ten minutes.

However, there is another way of looking at this. If you continue to work in this distracted state, then you are less effective. Does it remind you of the saying, ‘less means more’? This is particularly important with imminent exams.

Taking regular breaks to keep you focussed is really important. However, make sure a break really is a break, not just an excuse to check your emails!

When you’re talking to someone, make them feel that they are the only person in your world at that time. You will reap the benefits!

Being undistracted means doing one thing at a time. But it takes constant effort to stay in this highly efficient state. Working in this highly effective state is particularly important as certain times, for example, around exam time, when you need to focus on revision. Make sure all the distractions are removed – yes, that includes your phone!!! You will learn much more quickly if you do it in an effective state, and it will take you far less time, therefore giving you more time to really relax and enjoy yourself. Give it a go and let me know what you think.