Frittering away time and losing focus at work is easier than ever with internet games and social networking providing instant opportunities to become distracted and veer off task. Integrity dictates giving a job one’s full attention while on the clock and living up to the expectations for the job description.
A high level of job satisfaction, job security and opportunities for advancement are the potential rewards of a conscientious attitude toward one’s work. In order to reap those benefits, it is important to minimize distractions and maintain focus throughout the day.
Ways to maintain focus during the workday:
Get off on the right foot – Begin the day by having a healthy nutritious breakfast that will jump-start energy levels and enhance ability to concentrate. Be sure to obtain adequate sleep the night before, for being overtired is a direct route to losing focus midday. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid the negative effects of dehydration depleting energyand interfering with concentration.
Be organized – Make a list of tasks to be accomplished in order of importance. At the top of the list put in all caps the single word, “FOCUS” as a reminder. It is surprising how a small visual reminder can make a significant impact. Clean off the desk so only the necessary tools remain, such as, the computer, calendar, inbox, notebook and pencil. It is actually a good idea to perform this organizational task before going home each evening so that the list of duties and obligations is visible upon arrival at work.
Schedule tasks – As each new task is begun, have a mental awareness of how much time will be spent on it. Establishing effective time frames for individual tasks is apt to decrease the temptation to carry on idle conversations and indulge in distracting activities. Make a commitment to adhering to self-imposed deadlines.
Take breaks – Working through breaks and lunchtime might seem like a strategy for buying time and being more productive, but that technique is actually counterproductive. Get away from the workload for brief increments to refresh and reenergize. Take a brisk walk outside in the fresh air, meditate or practice deep breathing exercises. More can be accomplished in less time with a refreshed body and spirit.
Single-task – Much as “multi-tasking” has become the popular buzzword in the workplace, the fact is that doing a singular task and giving it full concentration is a more effective way to maintain focus, perform well and get more work done. Trying to do two or more things at once is a distraction in itself.
Reflect – At the end of each day, reflect on what has been accomplished; when and what type of distraction might have interfered. Raising awareness of how one’s workday plays out is the best way to combat future potential distractions. If taking non-emergency personal phone calls has eaten away valuable time or an especially talkative co-worker has side-tracked focus, in the future the solution may be to let phone calls go to the message machine and be honest with the coworker about deadlines overriding casual conversation.
Maintaining focus during the workday not only demonstrates respect for one’s employer, but also enhances an individual’s self-respect. At the end of the day there are apt to be good feelings of self-satisfaction in reflecting and being able to say, “This was a productive day.”
Many thanks to Bob Cornett @ MSHA and his safety sharing group for sharing this us.