Improve your focus and stay on task

by Barbara Latta

Recently I was in a situation where I was being introduced to lots of people I didn’t know. Immediately after meeting them, I struggled to remember some names. I also am constantly misplacing my cell phone, glasses, and keys.  

Added to these struggles, the activity from electronic gadgets

 and the busyness of life can cause distraction.  Here are some tools I am working on to keep me on course toward my goal of organization and remedies for forgetfulness.

• Write things down – when listening to instructions whether from a teacher, employer, or just someone giving you information you want to remember, having a written record before you gives your mind a visual aid you can refer back to.
• Keep your work space organized – tackle clutter in small increments and it will not be so overwhelming. You may need to make yourself a list and post it on your desk as a reminder to put items away when finished working. This will develop a habit over time and make organization easier to accomplish.
• Keep a regular schedule as much as possible – while life does get in the way and things happen unexpectedly, a regular routine will train the mind to remember the order of the day. Using a monthly planner can remind us of appointments and meetings and take the burden of trying to remember what has to be done off our mind.
• Look people in the eye – focusing on someone while they are speaking will emphasize what they are saying to the brain. It also helps to repeat key words to yourself to aid in remembering the important parts of the conversation. 
• Keep your body fit – regular exercise, eating properly, and getting enough sleep will keep your brain nourished and working properly.
• Stay positive – Reading books that encourage positive thinking can keep your mind from drifting to negative self-talk. We don’t need to condemn ourselves when we slip up.
• Record your goals – write down your goals and read them to yourself daily. A visual record will keep them in your mind and keep you on track. Make the goals in small increments to avoid being overwhelmed.

We can all use help avoiding forgetfulness and lack of organization. What are some of your remedies?