How often do you find your mind wandering when you’re in the middle of something? If the answer is “all the time” you’re not alone.
Why do our minds wander?
Many people associate a wandering mind with having too much to do in too little time. In essence there are many reasons why your mind wanders. You may be mentally tracking multiple items that you don’t want to forget. You may be spontaneously generating new ideas/solutions to outstanding issues. You may be growing tired of the present task. Regardless, a wandering mind results in you not being fully focused on the present activity.

What does a focused mind look like?
A focused mind shuts out distractions, stays engaged in the present activity, and has a clear vision about what it is trying to accomplish. A focused mind is extremely productive. It is well versed in the present task (including the context and detailed background) and easily learns about, analyzes and generates ideas.

How does ‘focus’ impact productivity?
Your efficiency level drops every time your mind wanders. When your mind wanders you lose a number of things including the background/context, ideas that still need to be captured and momentum towards completing a task.
How many times have you gone back to a task and said “Now, where was I?” This is a reflection of needing to spend time reviewing the background, recalling undocumented ideas and building momentum once again. The more time you take a break from a task, the more time you need to ramp up again.

How can you improve your focus?
I invite you to look for ways to improve your focus. The first step is to identify a reasonable amount of time that you will be able to focus on any one thing. Personally, I like to work in 30 minute blocks. The second step is to identify what you plan to accomplish during this time.

Wherever possible, resist giving in to distractions during this time. Let your phone go to voicemail. Close your e-mail account. Ask drop-by visitors if you can follow up with them later in the day. Pull your mind back to the present task if it starts to wander (and by all means, make a quick note if you don’t want to forget something that pops into your head). In most cases, the world (including e-mails) can wait for 30 minutes.

At the end of your time, reward yourself for your intense focus by shifting activities. Check your e- mail, follow-up with your colleague or stand up for a stretch break.

Celebrate being one step closer to optimizing your productivity.