HOW TO CONCENTRATE ON YOUR WORK


Have you ever found yourself simply uninterested in the work
that's in front of you?  Have you then mentally drifted off to Tahiti
for a moment of relief--only to find, suddenly, that the day is over
and you've accomplished next to nothing?  Here are a few tips to
help you regain your concentration--and hold onto it.

GET FOCUSED.  Make a list of what has to be done.  Give each
task a time frame.  Get out your work tools--including your list.
Then go to work, watching your schedule and sticking to it.  Don't
allow yourself out of your chair until a task is completed.

MARK YOUR PLACE.  When you're interrupted, take a second
before you break away to jot down a word or phrase to help you
remember where you were in your work.  Taking notes also helps
maintain concentration during lengthy conversations or meetings.

KEEP TRACK OF YOUR THOUGHTS.  Whenever you become aware
that your thoughts are beginning to wander, yell "STOP!"  (in your
mind, of course--not aloud).  This will bring your drifting to a halt
and redirect your attention to what needs to be done.

LOG YOUR DISTRACTIONS.  If you find that your thoughts are
wandering more often than you'd like, keep a record of where your
attention is drifting.  Study this log to discover what's really making
you lose your concentration--and do something to eliminate the
distraction.

BRIBE YOURSELF.  Promise yourself that as soon as you finish a
certain task, you'll get a reward--anything from a cup of coffee to the
most glamorous prize you can afford.  Then make sure you get it
when you complete the job.

The best way to handle uninteresting tasks is to finish them as
soon as possible.  But grim determination alone isn't always enough
to get you through uninspiring chores.  The tips listed here will help
you cut through the fog, complete tasks more quickly, and pay
greater attention to the issues you care about the most.