Distractions are all around us. Sometimes we look for them, sometimes they sneak up on us. Whatever the reason we usually find ways of distracting ourselves. This is especially true now that most of us are taking online courses and / or working from home. However, there are ways of preventing yourself from getting distracted.

Recognize what your distractions are.

We don’t always notice when we get distracted until after the fact. If you can spot what distracts you from your homework or that important task you are working on then maybe you can prevent them.

Some distractions you may face at home are your family, social media, TV, computer and cell phone. Turn off your notifications and cell phone. You won’t need them. As for your family, try asking them for an hour or two of alone time. It is important for you to focus on your school work and not them.

Put yourself in distraction free mode.

Once you can recognize what your distractions are, you will be able to get rid of them. Your phone is definitely a distraction and when doing homework you should have it turned off or at the very least put it on silence. When it comes to your computer you probably can’t turn it off, but keep social media platforms off. Try to organize your favorites or saved websites so that you aren’t tempted to let yourself get distracted.

Do the hardest (or most dreaded) task first.

It isn’t as hard to do the homework for the class or homework assignments you enjoy. Try doing the task that you do not want to do first. It will make the assignment easier and help you get done with it sooner.

Remove those bad habits that prevent you from getting things done.

The “I will do it later” or “It can wait” sayings are just some bad habits that you should rid yourself of. Instead try getting a head start on your homework or projects. Don’t put off what can be done now.

Declutter your mind.

Try to find relaxation techniques that help you. It is important to take time for yourself. If you need a starting point on finding the perfect relaxation technique for you check out the following article from the Mayo Clinic . By finding a good way of relaxing you will be able to declutter your mind.

Prepare your work place.

Clear your desk and get rid of the knick-knacks and photos on your desk. they may be cute but ultimately they will distract you from what you are doing. You also don’t want your desk to be cluttered because it can be distracting. This goes for the room you plan on working in. If the room is messy you will have a harder time focusing.

Set your time.

Do not try and get everything done at once. It will cause you stress and anxiety that you do not need in your life. Instead set a specific time frame for your projects. Between each project take a little break and relax. The breaks are when you can let yourself get distracted.

With all that is going on with COVID-19, it is important for us to find a way to limit the distractions in our lives. By getting rid of our distractions we can be more productive. This will lead to less stress and anxiety and ultimately make our lives easier. If you can find a way to get rid of your distractions then do it, it will help you in the long run.

Need a new Desk Organizer? Leave a comment below on how you are currently dealing with your distractions in order to be eligible to win a desk organizer with various school supplies (*supplies will vary from those in the photo*). A winner will be randomly selected on 4/10/2020 at 12:00 PM and will be announced. Only current Millersville University students are eligible to win.