Wake Up: Simple Tricks to Help You Maintain Focus

You've just returned from a really great lunch at your favorite restaurant. You begin working on a project when you notice your eyelids getting heavy and your mind starting to wander. Or, maybe you lose focus first thing in the morning. Perhaps the sound of your favorite song drifts over your cubicle wall and you want to dance, not work.

If your goal is to get ahead in your career, it's important that you develop good work habits, including maintaining focus. To help you do just that, here are six productivity tips to consider:

1.) Feed your brain.

To stimulate your brain and improve your ability to focus, you need to consider what foods you're consuming. Processed foods, refined sugar, alcohol, too much salt, and meals containing saturated fat can leave you feeling lethargic, while fish, nuts, fruits, and whole grains can help nourish your brain. To stay focused during the day, eat foods that will energize you.

2.) Start with the end in mind.

If you don't know where you're going, how will you know that you've arrived? Before beginning a project, you should determine the projected outcome. This will allow you to focus on reaching the desired end result, instead of finding yourself all over the map without direction. Also, don't let distractions have you taking any side trips.

3.) Eat the elephant one piece at a time.

Consider the old adage that the easiest way to stay focused and accomplish something is to break large projects down into smaller, bite-sized portions. This way, you can finish smaller tasks and feel as if you've accomplished something. Another benefit? It will allow you to take breaks to refresh yourself.

4.) Break up your routine.

Speaking of breaks, if you want to stay focused, periodically step away from your desk. To sit for hours on end in the same position working on the same project not only cramps your style; it can also put a cramp in your backside. Get out of your office during your breaks and lunch period. Take a walk, stretch your muscles, deliver information to coworkers or, if possible, go to the gym. Regardless of which activity you choose, do anything that will take your mind off work. Most likely, you'll be able to focus better when you return.

5.) Mix up your day.

Working on a single project or task for long periods of time can be detrimental to your mental health. Be sure to incorporate lots of different responsibilities into your day, ranging from reading e-mails, writing reports to returning phone calls. The mini-diversions will keep you from getting bogged down and losing focus.

6.) Don't put off things until tomorrow.

If you're feeling stressed out because you have a big due-date looming, you may also find that your focus is lapsing as you experience the pressure. Help yourself out by finishing projects in advance. This removes the deadline-related stress and strain and allows you to focus better.

Ultimately, the best way to focus on your projects at work or at home is to practice good habits. And, this just may include learning ways to boost your productivity.