Tactics to Improve Focus During a Long Work Week

Forty-plus hour workweeks can be draining. Maintaining focus can be difficult and lead to a loss of productivity. An article by Glassdoor offered five strategies that you can use to improve your focus, even when mental fatigue sets in.

1. Take breaks regularly. Working 8,10, or even 12 hours can take a toll on you. Be sure to take the initiative to take breaks regularly—even short ones. Go for a 5-minute walk. Get a breath of fresh air.
2. Don’t be afraid to take a nap. You don’t need a siesta to revive yourself. All it takes is 15 minutes. A quick 15-minute nap can help to get you focused and improve your productivity.
3. Treat your mind and body right. It’s hard to focus when you’re unhealthy. Eat a healthy diet and stay in good physical condition. Energy drinks and caffeine pills can give short-term boosts but they are not advised for long-term use. Staying healthy can help to improve mental clarity and focus.
4. Avoid distractions. The best way to stay focused is to avoid distractions. Consider what distracts you the most when trying to work. If there is a particular website that occupies a lot of your time, don’t visit this site when you’re on the clock. If text messages distract you, turn off your phone.
5. Prioritize your tasks. Create a to-do list to keep you focused. Place the most important tasks first. Checking off items on a to-do list can be motivating and provide a sense of accomplishment. It encourages you to continue pushing forward through the list.