If you notice that you may be easily distracted, it may be
time to take a step back and re-evaluate your habits. There
are lots of signs that you can be mindful of that signal
that you are easily distracted. Here are a few:
1. You can’t focus on one task for more than a few minutes.
If you can’t seem to focus on anything for more than a few
minutes, it’s hard to get anything done. Fortunately, you
can try to diminish this by:
- Finding a quiet workplace where you won’t be interrupted
by others or outside noise. - Breaking up your tasks
- Setting a timer
2. You often find yourself daydreaming or spacing out.
Daydreaming and spacing out are signs that you’re not fully
focused on the task. If you notice this often, it’s
essential to try and bring yourself back to the present
moment. For example, ground yourself by focusing on your
breath and counting each inhale and exhale.
3. You have trouble paying attention when others are talking
to you.
Do you ever talk to someone whom you can’t understand what
they’re saying because your mind is elsewhere? This can be
frustrating for you and the person you’re talking to. To try
and mitigate this, make sure to:
- Make eye contact with the person speaking.
- Repeat what you heard them say to them to ensure you
understand them. - Ask questions about what they’re saying.
4. You are easily distracted by noises or other activities
going on around you.
If the noise, lights, or other distractions around you are
impossible to ignore, you will need to mitigate this problem
anytime you need to be in a space like that. To reduce this,
try:
- Wearing headphones to block out external noise.
- Working in a quiet place where there won’t be much
activity around you.
5. You often lose track of time and miss deadlines.
Missing deadlines is a sign that you need to be more mindful
of how you’re spending your time. Set a timer or alarm to
keep yourself on track.
6. You can’t stay organized or keep track of your
belongings.
Losing your stuff is frustrating and can get you off track
as you search for your belongings. To try and prevent this,
make sure to:
- Have a designated place for all your belongings.
- Make a list of actions to take, including when you need to
do it. - Stick to a routine as much as possible.
7. You are constantly moving and can’t seem to sit still.
Nothing is wrong with fidgeting, as it is a great calorie
burner, but if you can’t slow down enough to focus on a
task, it can present problems. This can be frustrating and
make it difficult to concentrate on your work. Try:
- Getting up and moving for at least every 90 minutes.
- Taking breaks often to move your body and get some fresh
air. - Finding a comfortable place to work where you won’t feel
the need to move around constantly.
Mindfully consider whether you are experiencing any of these
signs. If you experience one or more of them regularly,
chances are you are easily distracted. If you are, try some
mitigation ideas to change your situation. You completely
control your distraction level even if you find out you
ultimately need additional assistance from a medical
professional.
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