3 Tips for Improving Focus

Written By Rachel Gryniewicz, MA, MATL
 
 

Maintaining and sustaining focus is a big challenge for many of us, particularly in a digital world when notifications are constantly fighting for our attention. Whether it comes to school, work, or home it is increasingly important to stay present and focused at the task at hand. 


Here are three tips for improving focus:

“Ping!” - your screen has lit up again!

One of the biggest obstacles to sustained focus is distractions, particularly digital. When starting a task, be sure to turn your phone on “focus mode” or “do not disturb” to limit the possibility of picking up your phone and putting down your productivity. 

It is also important to create an environment conducive to focus. Many of us find it easier to buckle down when those around us are working as well. Taking advantage of your school’s library or your office space might just be the ticket. When working from home or completing homework, choose a designated spot to complete this work in your house. Working on your couch in front of the TV or in bed is not going to foster your productivity. 

Does multitasking really work?

Many of us are confident in our task switching capabilities, but it is difficult for our brains to fully focus on each task independently and give the task our full attention. When we go back and forth between tasks or try to complete multiple tasks at once, we are often not working more efficiently but rather doing more tasks poorly. Choose one task to work on at a time, this will reduce your cognitive load and help you stay focused and present. 

Find your fuel!

Our brains need proper fuel to sustain focus. Make sure to take a break, grab a snack or a drink, but set a time for yourself to make sure you return to your tasks promptly. Sleep is also key to our success during the day. Maintaining a nighttime routine which allows you to get to sleep in a timely manner will help you wake up with renewed energy and the ability to focus during your day.  


Using these three tips can help you find your focus and not only increase productivity but the time you have for hobbies, passion and rest. Work smarter with better focus!

Rachel Gryniewicz, MA, MATL

Rachel brings over a decade of experience in instructional coaching, curriculum development, and the design and implementation of student focused workshops and programs. She specializes in working with students in the areas of organization, time management, study strategies, and other crucial executive function skills. Her interests in developing leadership and advocacy skills in adolescents enrich her coaching sessions empowering her clients to be more assertive and confident. As a former high school teacher and college lecturer, Rachel understands the skills required to be successful at both levels and helps students prepare for their transition to college, including teaching and reinforcing strategies around planning ahead and breaking down large tasks. Rachel has also curated several professional development opportunities for educators centered on Executive Function skills such as resiliency and flexible thinking. 

A member of the Life Solved team since 2017, Rachel has recently entered a full-time position coordinating the client onboarding experience and ensuring a successful coaching engagement for coach and client. She continues to work with students of different ages and backgrounds as well as adult clients. Her positive energy and passion for helping others find success is evident in the work she does with her clients.

Rachel has a Masters in Teacher Leadership from Mount Holyoke College as well as a  Masters in Classics from the University of Maryland, College Park.  She also holds a Bachelor of Arts in Classics and Art History from Mount Holyoke College.

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