Tag: Productivity

The Quest to Improve My Focus

Published on by Sandy Davis

Well, it’s been a minute since I posted here, and although I was very busy at the end of the spring semester (I’m a full-time college professor and mother of two teenagers), I honestly can’t say that I don’t have the time to write, because I spend an inordinate amount of time WASTING my time. Although I successfully quit and deleted Facebook and Instagram in 2019, and haven’t looked at Twitter/X in over a year (I NEVER got into Tik Tok), I’m still hopelessly addicted to doomscrolling on Reddit. After getting into Cal Newport’s books and videos and exploring the concept of Deep Work, I’ve decided to work on improving my ability to focus.

Here are some tips adapted from several sources. I will be putting this into practice over the next month (includuing going cold turkey from reading Reddit) and will check back in on how it’s working for me.

  1. Improve the QUALITY and reduce the quantity of information you consume (instead of getting your news from social media sites):
  • Daily: Have one daily or even weekly “news roundup” source such as a newsletter, news podcast, or physical newspaper (daily or weekly)
  • Monthly: Read 3-5 long-form magazine articles (New Yorker, etc.)
  • Yearly: Read books about topics that interest you

2. Increase your comfort level with boredom:

  • Practice driving, walking, running errands, and doing chores with your phone or without external stimulation (listening to music and podcasts).

3. Cultivate your ability to pay attention

    • Use a timer or stopwatch to practice interval training (increasing the amount of time you are able to focus on a single target)

    4. Create specific environments and rituals to help you get into deep work focus mode (a place to write, to read, to work difficult tasks).

        6. Practice being an intellectual (seek out nuance and uncertainty)

          • Pair primary and secondary sources (More on this soon! I’m thinking of making a video about this concept).

          Embracing Winter Productivity: Overcoming Burnout and Distraction

          Published on by Sandy Davis

          I will admit, I really struggle with productivity in winter. This winter, especially, I’ve been dealing with an ongoing feeling of exhaustion and a lack of focus. The cold weather and shorter days take a toll on my energy levels and motivation, leaving me feeling drained and unproductive. From talking to my fellow teachers, writers, and parents, I know I’m not alone.

          However, I have many goals I want to accomplish and projects I need to get started, so I realize I need to kick things into gear and try to get more done. I’ve been doing a lot of reading, research, and experimentation in this area and having finally found a few strategies that are working well for me.

          1. Create a Comfortable Workspace (THIS ONE IS HUGE FOR ME): Your environment plays a significant role in your productivity levels. Create a workspace that is conducive to focus and concentration, free from distractions and clutter. Surround yourself with elements that inspire and uplift you, whether it’s a scented candle, a favorite plant, or soothing instrumental music. By curating a comfortable and inviting space, you can enhance your productivity and motivation, even on the dreariest of days.

          2. Embrace the Season: Rather than resisting the winter blues, embrace the unique opportunities it offers. Winter is a time for introspection and self-care. Take advantage of the cozy ambiance to indulge in activities that nourish your mind and body, such as reading by the fireplace, enjoying warm cups of tea, or taking long walks in the snow-covered landscapes. Cultivate a mindset of acceptance towards the season, recognizing it as a time for rest and renewal.

          3. Set Realistic Goals: In the midst of fatigue and burnout, it’s essential to set realistic and manageable goals for yourself. Break down your tasks into smaller, achievable milestones, and prioritize them based on importance and urgency. By setting clear objectives, you can avoid feeling overwhelmed and maintain a sense of progress, no matter how small.

          4. Practice Self-Care: Self-care is crucial for maintaining overall well-being, especially during the winter months. Prioritize activities that rejuvenate your body and mind, such as getting enough sleep, eating nourishing foods, and engaging in regular exercise. Take breaks throughout the day to stretch, meditate, or simply breathe deeply. By prioritizing self-care, you can replenish your energy reserves and combat the effects of burnout.

          5. Manage Your Energy: Recognize that your energy levels fluctuate throughout the day, and plan your tasks accordingly. Identify your peak hours of productivity and tackle your most demanding tasks during these times. Break up your workday with periodic breaks to prevent fatigue and maintain focus. Experiment with different productivity techniques, such as the Pomodoro Technique or time-blocking, to find what works best for you.

          6. Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness is a powerful tool for combating distraction and enhancing focus. Take a few moments each day to practice mindfulness meditation, focusing your attention on the present moment and observing your thoughts without judgment. Cultivate a mindset of mindfulness in your daily activities, whether it’s savoring a warm cup of cocoa or engaging fully in a work task. By practicing mindfulness, you can train your mind to stay present and attentive, even amidst the winter doldrums.

          7. Seek Support: I really struggle with this and I have to admit that I don’t really follow it as often as I should. However, this strategy comes highly recommended from almost every source I read. So don’t hesitate to reach out for support when you’re feeling overwhelmed or burnt out. Whether it’s talking to a trusted friend, seeking guidance from a mentor, or consulting a mental health professional, reaching out for support can provide valuable perspective and assistance. Remember that you’re not alone in facing the challenges of productivity and burnout, and there are resources available to help you navigate through them.

          Keep in mind that even the smallest amount of progress is cumulative, so be kind to yourself. I hope this season be a time of transformation and resilience for all of us!