Computers are wondrous creations for excelling at work or school. They are not without their challenges, however. After all, how is one supposed to focus on spreadsheets or calculus homework on the same machine that offers access to every movie ever, pictures of cute baby animals, and everyone that you’ve ever met?
Technology can be a wonderful tool for studying and getting things done, if you use it properly. That means knowing how to stay focused. After all, 49% of students find that using technology for studying is distracting.
If you use tech for work or school, here are some tips for staying focused to help remain productive and unlock your potential!
Tips For Staying Focused On The Computer
Staying focused when you work on the computer is tricky at the best of times. It’s been particularly challenging in 2020, however, due to the prevalence of remote work and schooling. The separation between work and home life has never been so perilously thin.
It also means that it’s never been more focused to concentrate while working. If we don’t, feelings of anxiety and stress can spread into every aspect of your life. These tips for staying focused will help you avoid feeling overwhelmed, falling behind in work or school, and feeling stressed and anxious.
Put Your Phone Away
There’s been a lot of talk of “two screen viewing” in recent years. Much of that talk has been critical as having multiple tech devices around that are connected to the internet divides our attention, making it difficult to get anything done, let alone excel at any given task.
We’re not here to debate the efficacy of different tech setups. Every computer user has their own preferred setup that works best for them. We also realize that many of today’s internet users are more comfortable browsing the internet with a mobile device.
If you’re using a computer for work or school, however, you should consider avoiding that temptation. Our phones are often hooked up to apps, networks, and resources that are designed to distract us. You don’t take personal calls when you’re in the office and working. Why should you feel compelled to answer Facebook messages when you’re on the clock.
There are some arguments that can be made for phones and tablets increasing productivity. Sometimes it’s useful to look up a definition or a source quickly on your phone rather than having 100 tabs open on your browser. If a smartphone is hardwired into your workflow, you should consider installing some sort of productivity app like Focus to help you stay on-task when you’re working.
Block Out Time
Computers are designed for multi-tasking. Especially today’s computers, where apps and software are connected and inter-linked. You could literally watch what’s going on in your living room all day long if you felt like it, with just a few inexpensive cameras.
Given the interconnected nature of today’s technology, you’ve got to make yourself focus. Yes, multi-tasking is great and useful and necessary. It isn’t always, though. Sometimes you need to do one thing at a time, do it well and thoroughly and just get it done.
If you’re serious about being productive when you’re working or studying, you should treat it like a traditional job. You should “punch in” and work for a pre-determined amount of time. The duration is up to you, depending on how long you’re able to work before needing a break.
Take Care Of Your Body
Considering how easy it is to jump from one task to another when you’re on the computer, you’ve got to remember to take care of your body. It’s not healthy to stay in one place or position for too long.
If you’re using a computer for long periods of time, every hour or two you should get up and do some basic stretches. Focus on your lower back, fingers, and wrists, as these are parts of your body that get the most wore out when you’re working on a computer.
Also remember to stay hydrated. And, no, chugging endless pots of coffee doesn’t count as that just dehydrates you further. Remember to drink water or some sort of replenishing sports drink with electrolytes. Not only will this help you remain healthy, it also helps you to be productive. Drinking water is key to prolonged concentration and keeping your energy levels up.
Finally, remember to take care of your eyes. Staring at a screen for long periods of time can cause serious strain on your eyes. This can lead to everything from headaches to actually damaging your vision. It can also effect your ability to concentrate and focus, quite literally.
Use Technology
Since technology is the cause of so many of these problems, it’s only fitting that it also be a part of the solution. There is tech to help you do nearly anything on Earth, after all.
There’s a nearly endless array of productivity apps, software, tools, and resources out there. Some are harsh and elaborate, like distraction-free writing mode which acts as a kind of virtual blinders and forcing you to remain focused. Others are more simple but can be just as effective like an online timer. You’d be amazed how something as simple as setting a timer for two hours can help you work up to your ultimate potential.
When you follow these tips for remaining focused when working on a computer, you’ll be able to make the most out of technology while avoiding most of the potential pitfalls. Your work will flourish as a result and so will the other parts of your life!
Want More Tech Tips?
Technology is constantly evolving at warp speed. It can be disorienting – not to mention impossible – to keep up with it all. Whether you’re looking for tips for staying focused while you’re at work or the latest app reviews and round-ups, you’ll find it here! Browse the rest of our site for even more tech tips and resources!
