How to get tasks done? How can I concentrate when I want to?

[mumznet]

I can't seem to concentrate. I've got some studying to do, have tried a timer, but I always find something else to do, or only study when I feel like it. I'm listening to white noise now, but as it's bed time now so will give this a try tomorrow.

What tips are there to make sure a difficult assignment gets completed, a task/ activitiy is done completely and not left half done. When there's lots to do but the brain doesn't want to do it? there are no underlying conditions! Are there any great tips that anyone has tried and tested? Thanks

Prep first - pee, get a drink, get your materials, put phone on silent etc.
Then set timer for 10-15 minutes. People can do anything for 15 minutes.

When timer goes off you'll either silence it and carry on or you'll take a break. Use your timer for your break too.

Repeat.

thanks both.

if I do try to do something that I like first, the risk is that I may get so absorbed into that. will I need to set a timer for that as well?

also if I am studying and then just ignore the break times, as I'm really into the flow now, is that a good idea? Or do I have to have the breaks?

I sometimes have done the 15 min timer, then had a break, but then I never go back!

Once you realise you forgot to go back, don't be hard on yourself, just get set up again and start another timer. It's been proven that beating yourself up for procrastinating makes you more likely to procrastinate again.

Have you tried the Forest App?

I am currently extremely stressed by work and also struggling to concentrate (terrified of emails/ calls with more work and problems).

I find that i concentrate if there is background noise. I use the classic fm app to calm me down - or other music. Once I’m in the zone, I often absentmindedly turn off the background noise.

break when you feel ready. If it doesn’t tire you, it’s fine to stay in your zone for several hours - do what’s works for you.

thanks all. is the forest app free?

also when I do actually get started, I always seem to think of something else that also needs doing / looking at? Is there any way to reduce this issue?

You need this! (It's free)

https://pomofocus.io

It's a website which will really help. It's how I got through my degree. The Pomodoro method follows a basic pattern of 25 minutes of studying followed by a five-minute break.

thanks I'll give it a try. @NessaSmith do you prefer this website link or is a manual timer any good?

Both will work, I just use the website. Or there's an app.

When the timer goes off, if I’m in my flow and still going I just reset it and don't take the 5 min break. But I usually do