RANDOM SPOTLIGHT: LOSING YOUR FOCUS?

Nowadays, it is very easy to lose your focus, especially with the ready availability of rapid technologies like Facbook & instant messaging, besides the prevalence of other distractions.

So, how does one get focused & stay focused?

Here are some quick suggestions:

- focus with the end in mind, & use the important goals or objectives in your life as guideposts in whatever you do;

- remove all physical distractions as much as possible from your immediate work area;

- alternatively, & if possible, change your physical environment to one that is more conducive to maintaining a resourceful mindstate;

- clean up your workplace clutter, if any, as a clean desk begets a clear mind, which in turn drives appropriate & efficient action;

- block out a fixed amount of time from your daily routines to do your most important work;

- use daily 'Things-to-do" Lists, with ABC prioritisation, as guideposts;

- prioritising your important tasks constantly to keep you on the ball;

- breaking down big tasks into small, bite-sized chunks, where possible;

- tracking your progress rigorously, by using say a simplified PERT Chart;

- detaching yourself from negative self-talk through declarative statements;

- use scratchpads on your work desk to capture any random thoughts that distract you by jotting them down;

- practise journaling to regulate your daily thought processes & goal planning;

- play soothing, relaxing music in the background e.g. Pachelbel Canon, while you work;

- using motivating posters as visual peripherals on the wall to help you stay focused;

- if feasible, use full spectrum lighting in your work area; if not, work in a physical area where there is natural light coming in;

[Note: flourescent lighting is bad, especially for the eyes, due to its pulsating strobe effects. In fact, adding a work or reading lamp that uses the old-fashioned tungsten bulb next to you is highly recommended.]