In a world full of distractions and chaos, focusing on tasks and getting them finished is a difficult challenge. For example, sitting down to write. It’s not easy for me. [and most others] It’s hard to be able to sit down with organized thoughts and focus on deep work when there are so many other things going on.
This is especially true with distractions like social media, smartphones, and the recurring narrative in our head that we are missing out on other things.
In this post, I’m going to share my tips on how to cut out distractions and blast out the task at hand. Whether it be creative work, a large project, or common chores, I think you’ll find my tips helpful.
How to Focus More Easily
Clean and Declutter
The first thing I do when I have to focus on a project is tidy up my environment. Clutter and filth makes me anxious. It’s difficult to concentrate when the space I am working in is a mess — I just can’t stand it
I hate it so much, I’ll spend whatever time it takes to get things clean and organized. By tidying up, I can concentrate on the task at hand without being irritated. A clean space gives a sense of calm and to be honest, is an underrated productivity hack.
Close Mental Loops
There are always things to do. Always.
And when there is too much to do, we often have a loop of recurring thoughts in our heads. Thoughts about tasks that need to be taken care of and situations that need to be resolved. Thoughts that distract us from accomplishing things that will make a difference in our lives.
My advice is to take care of as much of the small stuff as possible.
I call this closing mental loops.
By knocking out the small tasks, we’re able to clear our mind — letting us focus on more important things.
Get the small things out of the way. Have the difficult conversation. Make the tough decision. Close as many mental loops as possible. This will help you focus.
Find a Quiet Place
If what you are planning to work on takes deep concentration, find a place that’s quiet to work.
I won’t go too far into this but, any place that’s free from distractions, people, noise, etc. is going to help you focus. I like to work at my kitchen table when the house is empty and late at night when everyone’s asleep.
When I can’t find a quiet place I’ll go to my office, however, I prefer working at home.
Also, if music or some other form of background noise helps you concentrate then, by all means, do what works for you.
Don’t Multitask
We all know multitasking is for people who don’t like to see things done. When working on projects and deep work, it’s important to focus on one thing at a time.
Nothing is worse than trying to juggle multiple projects without actually seeing something finished. Ironically, multitasking creates mental loops — and as we’ve discussed, are terrible for focus.
Start something. Finish it. Move onto the next. The end.
Ignore the Noise
Cut out the distractions. Click off of social media and put your smartphone on airplane mode. If it helps, put your phone in another room where it’s out of sight and out of mind. Let others know that you have work to do and politely ask them to leave you alone.
Also, close out of any tabs on your computer and close out of your email.
If you’re having trouble concentrating, set 30-60 minute time blocks and give yourself a small reward when finished. Spend a few minutes in between blocks relaxing, grabbing a snack, and get some fresh air. Doing so can work wonders for your productivity, and the creative process.
Get Obsessed
Get obsessed with your work. Whatever you’re working on, make it your mission. Like nothing else in the world is even remotely important.
I can’t stress this enough. If you want to get things done, there are times when it needs to be compulsive and seemingly unhealthy.
Now, I’m not saying you have to do this all of the time, but, I have found that if I have a large project that needs to be finished [one that takes a lot of focus and I need it to go fast] making it my obsession is what gets it done.
It’s not uncommon for me to work until the early hours of the morning if I find myself in the zone. This is when I am at my most productive.
Yes, my work style tends to be a little on the manic side but I get the results I’m looking for.
The key here is to find a style that works for you — even if it’s a little unhealthy. There are times when it helps to work obsessively. Just remember to take breaks, and recharge when needed.
The Takeaway
The key to getting focused is removing distractions and getting started. Once you’ve started, momentum takes over and it’s easy to hit a flow state.
The most important thing is to identify a system that works for you. A set of rules [like these 6 tips] that can be met, and help you get focused more easily.