Why am I so easily distracted?
At the end of the day, I haven't completed anywhere near what I had planned to do. I write lists but the lists just seem to get longer and longer. What is one to do?
A disciplined mind is a wonderful thing. All peak performers have disciplined themselves to clear their mind of mental chatter so they are able to concentrate on important tasks. One of the most beneficial qualities a person can develop is the ability to focus for an extended period of time.
Follow these simple exercises and no large task will again haunt you:
The two minute mind. Simply stare at the second hand on your clock for two minutes and think about nothing else for that time. At first the mind will wander but after 21 days of practice, your attention will not waver during the routine.
The powers of focus. To enhance your concentration and powers of focus, count your steps when you walk. Take six steps while taking a long inhale, hold your breath for another six steps, and then exhale for six steps. If six steps are to long, do what feels comfortable. You will feel alert, refreshed, and internally quiet and centered after this exercise. Recognize and appreciate the power of a quiet mind.
Create new habits. Get into the habit of memorizing; either beautiful poetry or a passage or quote from a favorite book. Practice for only five minutes a day and enjoy the results of developing the ability to focus for extended periods of time.
More coaching tips at:
When Doing It All Won't Do: A self-coaching guide for career women. (ebook edition $0.99, Workbook Edition in paperback $13.41)
When Doing It All Won't Do: A Self-Coaching Guide for Career Women--Workbook Edition--Paperback $13.41
Every now and then a person runs across a great book that really helps improve the quality of life. This is such a book! Written by top coaches of executive women, Barb McEwen and John Agno, the goal of When Doing It All Won’t Do is to develop solutions and strategies to help women’s lives be easier, richer, happier, and saner.
It’s based on the premise that doing it all won’t do. If you are a woman who is weary and stressed and taking on too much and struggling to juggle it all, this book is dedicated to helping you find the enjoyment and satisfaction you expected with your success.
Well-organized with real solutions and a helpful workbook section, this book focuses on developing your signature talents to do what you do best, developing a formula for success, and prioritizing your values and goals. A great read!
