How to concentrate

Finding it hard to concentrate? Try these three things to improve your focus:

1 Listen to brown noise

Brown noise is a version of ‘white noise’. Both sound a bit like static on a radio but brown noise has a lot less energy in the high frequencies, so it’s lower and more relaxing. It is credited with aiding relaxation, improving focus and (paradoxically) facilitating deep sleep. You can search for brown noise online.

2 Switch off

The ‘fear of missing out’ drives us to check our phones and emails regularly, which then becomes a habit that is hard to shake. We don’t even realise we’re doing it. Over time, being on high alert like this raises our stress levels and diminishes our ability to maintain the level of concentration required for deep thinking. So, to achieve deep focus, put your phone on silent and leave it out of reach, and disconnect your WiFi while you write. Even better, check your messages or social media just two or three times daily.

3 Meditate

Your ability to concentrate can be strengthened, like a muscle. Try focusing on a candle flame, a mantra or your breath, or find a guided meditation online. Meditation and mindfulness also quiet the mind and, ultimately, facilitate self-awareness and a heightened appreciation of life. Some experts say that meditating for just 10 minutes a day can improve your focus.

Heather Dyer
21 October 2021