- 21 Feb 2024
- News
8 More Ways to Stay Focused at Work
8 More Ways to Stay Focused at Work
As we saw in a previous article, staying fully focused at work can be a daily challenge. We’re constantly bombarded by delicious food options at our favourite food centres during lunch, expending energy at back-to-back meetings, or working overtime to meet deadlines. It’s no wonder our energy levels struggle to keep up with the demands of the day. On top of that, distractions are inevitable.
Below, we explore 8 ways to help you stay focused despite distractions and perform at your best at work:
1. Take a Shot: Boost Your Focus With an Energy Shot
2. Move It, Move It: Get Your Body Moving
Sitting in front of your computer for extended periods can cause physical and mental discomfort—stiffness, sluggishness, and an inability to focus are all common ailments that afflict the deskbound. Taking a break and doing some light exercise can work wonders for your overall health and well-being. A quick walk around the office or some simple stretches at your desk can help clear your mind, improve blood flow, and enhance your focus. Incorporating these simple physical activities into your daily routine can help you feel more energised and productive, allowing you to tackle your work with renewed focus.
3. Timing Is Everything: Use Time Wisely With the Pomodoro Technique
The Pomodoro technique is a great way to stay on track while working on multiple tasks. Essentially, you work for 25 minutes and take a 5-minute break, repeating this cycle. It’s like a mini challenge that helps you stay focused and productive. This technique allows you to manage your time better and stay motivated for longer periods. It’s easy to follow and helps break down work into small, achievable tasks with constant breaks in between, preventing you from feeling overwhelmed by seemingly massive tasks.
4. Plan to Succeed: Plan Your Goals Before the Day Starts
As a Singaporean professional, you know how busy and hectic workdays can be. The moment you step into the office, you’re bombarded by dozens of emails, WhatsApp messages, and company chats about meeting agendas and other tasks. Taking a few minutes to plan your day ahead can make all the difference. Before diving into work, it’s incredibly helpful to create a to-do list and prioritise your tasks. This simple step can help you stay focused and avoid getting sidetracked by unimportant tasks. Plus, it’s a great way to feel more organised and in control of your workday. So, take a deep breath, grab a cup of coffee, and start planning your day like a pro.
5. Get Distraction-Free: Turn Off Those Distracting Notifications
Our phones have become a constant source of distraction. It’s easy to get sidetracked by notifications from social media, messaging apps, and emails, making it hard to focus on work. While it’s tempting to check messages and respond immediately, it’s often unnecessary. By turning off or scheduling notifications for later, you can stay focused and avoid getting pulled into a never-ending cycle of distractions. Instead, set aside specific times to check your messages and emails during designated breaks, which can help you stay focused on the task at hand and do it well.
6. Watch What You Eat: Cut Sugar for a Clearer Mind
In Singapore, we’re spoiled with amazing food options, but our diets—rich in sugar and carbohydrates—can lead to crashes and feelings of fatigue after a meal, making it hard to stay focused. Think bubble tea, pastries, bread, chicken rice, and more. These might give you a quick burst of energy, but the crashes that follow can derail your productivity. A quick first step is to be mindful when you crave such foods and remind yourself not to indulge too often. Instead, opt for healthier options like fruits. These foods not only provide sustained energy but also help you stay mentally sharp and focused throughout the day.
7. Tactical Time-Outs: Take a Mental Break and Massage Your Tired Eyes
In today’s fast-paced world, taking a moment to pause and recharge might seem counterintuitive, but it can do wonders for your productivity and overall well-being. Incorporate simple relaxation techniques like mindfulness meditation or eye exercises at your desk. Massaging your eyes with warm palms can also help reduce eye strain and promote relaxation after long hours in front of the computer. By prioritising relaxation and self-care throughout the day, you can stay more focused.
8. Drop the Beats: Listen to Your Favourite Music While Working
Music can be a great tool to help you stay focused and motivated during work hours, especially if you play your favourite jams. Listening to music can help block out distractions around you and allow you to concentrate on your work. However, it’s important to choose music that doesn’t cause further distraction or interfere with work quality. So, put on your headphones and let the music help you power through your workday.Music can be a great tool to help you stay focused and motivated during work hours, especially your favourite jams. Listening to music can help block out distractions around you and let you be more focused on the work at hand. However, it’s important to choose music that doesn’t cause further distraction or interfere with the work quality. So, put on your headphones and let the music help you power through your workday.
