How to Improve Concentration at Work

Between noisy coworkers, impromptu meetings, and conflicting deadlines, it’s harder than ever to stay focused at work. The fast pace and hectic nature of today’s workplace leaves even the most disciplined people looking for ways to increase concentration.

Fortunately, we’ve rounded up some helpful suggestions on how to increase concentration that are sure to help you keep on track.

Top 5 Concentration Tips

1. Take Frequent Short Breaks

As Psychology Today writes, a 5-minute breather once every hour can relieve “decision fatigue,” boost motivation, and even mimic the memory consolidation that takes place when you sleep. For best results, get up and walk around, do some stretches if you feel like it, and maybe even step outside for a bit.

2. Work Toward Micro Goals

Naturally, in between the breaks, you need to be getting things done. One technique you can use is to work in spurts. In other words, set a micro goal to complete a specific task and commit to giving the task your full concentration for at least 25 to 90 minutes. Then, take a short break and repeat the process. In a recent article, Forbes referred to this as “pulse and pause,” and also referenced the “Pomodoro Technique” developed by productivity and efficiency expert Francesco Cirillo.

3. Practice Healthy Habits

In terms of energy and focus, drinking plenty of water, eating healthy snacks, and staying physically active will beat sitting at your desk and munching on sweets all day.

4. Reduce Noise and Visual Distractions

Today’s open office environments can make it tough to stay on task. Fortunately, employing some creative office design ideas can help foster a productive workplace environment. Here are some examples:

• Mobile Room Dividers – Also known as office partitions, these are freestanding panels that offer a lightweight, easy-to-reconfigure means to create visual separation and absorb ambient noise.
• Adjustable Desk Dividers – Think of these as miniature room dividers that attach to your desk to help you create a quiet and private micro environment.
• Mobile Whiteboards - These handy items can serve a dual role of creating visual separation while also providing a helpful brainstorming and productivity tool.
• Creative Use of Decorations – Need to block out something in your peripheral vision? A perfectly-placed plant or framed photo might do the trick.

5. Use a Standing Desk

More and more high-performing professionals from a wide variety of occupations report increased focus and energy when they stand at work. Many users also enjoy relief from back pain, which certainly can be a distraction that robs you of productivity.

ReFocus™ Acoustic Privacy Panels: Reclaim Your Space in an Open Office
The ReFocus line includes sound absorbing, attractive, and configurable room dividers and desk dividers. Mix and match pieces and colors to create quiet and private work or meeting areas without sacrificing the openness of your positive work environment.

We hope these office design ideas and office setup ideas help to keep you on task!