Losing focus is a natural process, and a useful one at that. The body is wired this way because at times, our attention needs to be deviated from whatever we are doing to shift our focus to something that might be dangerous, or gratifying.

Of course, modern days and the constant hubbub of technology in particular defeats this once-wonderful evolutionary system.

So, if you are a working mum, or stay-at-home mum (or not a mum too!), I know you could do with a few tips to help you stay focused. You might be trying to stay focused during deep work, or when trying to finish a task at home, or even anywhere else for the matter.

Read on for the lowdown on how to stay focused.

Here are 5 tips to help you stay focused

1. Tame the tech

Let’s start with the most obvious. Technology, as great as it is, can be the major cause of losing focus and concentration. As I write this blog post, my phone sits behind me, facedown, on silent mode (yes, simply having it out of sight helps!)
Sure, it buzzes if I get a call (I do not expect you to not answer calls that might be urgent, let’s be realistic), but my notifications are switched off.
So if I get a Facebook message, or my I get a like on my IG account, or an email comes in – I’ll be none the wiser.

2. Define your goal

Think about your desired result. I’ll keep using my current activities as an example.
My goal is to write this blog post (four of them to be exact). If I am wise about it, I will discourage myself to do anything else with refrains me from reaching my target.

3. Pick your timeframe

A goal without a timeframe is as good as going around in circles. Think about how much time you need to finish your current project. Be realistic, and be kind to yourself. No matter how hard you wish to finish something in a shorter period of time than reasonably possible, it ain’t happening.
My goal is to write 4 blog posts in 2 hours. Which brings me to my next point…

4. Help yourself

I looked at my watched and really honed in on the fact that in these two hours I would be doing NOTHING ELSE but writing. Here’s the clever part. I then thought about what I could do to limit distractions during those two hours.
I called my husband to check in and told him I’d be unavailable for two hours, then I called my grandma to confirm our plans for this afternoon, I popped into the loo, ate some fruit & fixed myself a snack for later, boiled some water which I put into a flask and carried that a mug, and a few herbal teas to my desk and filled my water bottle.

5. Reward yourself

Who doesn’t like a little reward after achieving whatever you are after? In my case, I chose to reward myself with 15 minutes of reading on the sofa. It’s something I enjoy, and am looking forward to it.

The crux of it all?

Were I not to manage my task in the timeframe I have set for myself, I would have to say goodbye to my reward. And believe me when I say, I would follow through with it.
I know that my brain needs to be trained to focus, so it is what I do. Yes, I am very disciplined you might be thinking. Think of all the positives you can gain from being disciplined. That’s more work done, and more free time for things that matter!

So mama, the next time you want to finish something important, check back and follow. Let me know how this works for you!

Happy Friday!

Love,

Nakita xxx

PS: I won’t be going live on Tuesday, because first and foremost I owe my time to my myself, and my family. Since Neil and I are away all weekend celebrating our anniversary, the house is in desperate need for some attention. So while Neil is with the kids at swimming lessons, I’ll be catching up on the laundry, housework and cooking. This will enable me to be present the rest of the week, which is much needed since we were away from the kids for a few days.
So mama, while I will miss you, I know you understand. I’m keeping it real – ALWAYS – catch you next week! x