Improving Attention

Engage in more stimulating activities

• Focused stimulation, which involves active thinking rather than passive, is best. Watching television is not as active to process as playing a game or learning a computer program. 

Minimize distractions

• Try to work in a quiet environment with no background distractions, such as noisy televisions or people talking.

Take regular breaks

• If the task is made more difficult by fatigue, work for shorter periods and take breaks.

Talk to yourself; say things aloud

• By simply saying aloud, "what should I be doing now?" or "stay focused" or reading out instructions for a task, you can help yourself stay on track.

Use environmental cues

• Hang a little note in your work area with a simple message on it, such as 'Focus on what to do.' This can often help avoid drifting off task. You could also try setting a phone alarm for every 20 minutes or use an egg timer as a cue to stay focused or check on what you need to do.

Set small target goals

• Clarifying your desired outcome will give you something definite to work toward and keep you motivated.

Use incentives

• When you accomplish a goal, reward yourself with something small. Try simple things, such as a TV program, or a cup of tea.

Take advantage of the time of day your brain works best

• If there is a time of day when your brain does certain work better, set up your daily schedule with that in mind.

Take one thing at a time

• Concentrate on one thing at a time. Don't try to take on too much information or too many tasks at once, as this leads to mistakes!

Structure

• Make a plan, break things down into manageable parts. This can make tasks less overwhelming.

Self monitor

• Check in with yourself. Are you on task? How can you get back on task? Do you need water or a short break?