Lately, I’ve had my hands in several projects in addition to starting my 6-week class today. With all these things buzzing around my head, it’s very easy to loose your ability to focus and concentrate. After several days of trying different techniques, I’ll share with you what worked for me, and maybe you can give some of these tips a shot the next time you find yourself staring off into space when you should be working.

1. Work in Absolute Silence. Ok, this is one that I’ve always had to do in order to retain even the slightest degree of focus. I can’t work in a room with even the slightest bit of distraction. I have resorted to buying a sound machine that I have to turn way up in order to read/write (yes, it’s on as I type this post!). This has to be the best $20 investment I’ve made and I’ve had it for years.

2. Watch T.V. Sometimes it helps to walk away from your work when you can’t focus. Do something that gives your brain some down time. It helps if you watch something you don’t have to actively analyze (i.e. reality shows instead of the news or a game show). Sometimes being able to loose yourself in something frivolous for even 30 minutes can do wonders for your concentration.

3. Walk Away. Or run, or lift weights, you get the idea. Do something physical. Put down the book, step away from the computer and let your body expel some of that energy that is keeping you from concentrating. A relaxed body will lead to a more relaxed mind.

4. Play A Game. I’ve been utilizing this technique as of late. It seems like if I can’t focus or hone in on something I play a video game. It helps me to get my mind “in the zone” while tricking it into thinking it’s having fun at the same time. Just a note of caution on this one: if you’re a person who has a tendency to play video games for hours on end, limit yourself to 20 minutes otherwise you will never get back to your project. The idea is to get your mind focused and limber.

So next time you have a looming deadline and you find yourself re-reading the same page five times in a row and it’s still not sinking in, try one of these concentration-helpers. And if anyone has any specific techniques they use to help them concentrate, I’d love to hear it!