Unleash your Mind!
Ever find yourself completely spaced out in class? Or you find yourself listening to a friend, and suddenly you have no idea what they’re talking about? It can be frustrating, but completely normal. Usually, we just chalk it up to fatigue or being too busy.
According to recent studies, our brain is naturally primed to wander whenever it can. Mind wandering is simply your brain taking a healthy break, although sometimes it’s best left for another occasion. Whether it’s sitting in class or on the job, we all need to be able to concentrate and focus even if brain doesn’t want to. Here are a few tips to unleash your beautiful mind this fall by maximizing your ability to focus and prevent brain fog.
Get organized. If you have several to-dos, make a list and decide what to tackle first. Clear all other projects off your desk and computer screen. “Out of sight, out of mind” totally applies here. Check things off your list as you complete your task. That visual gives you a real sense of accomplishment and helps to maintain focus. Lighten up on the clutter in your locker (clean it out and keep it neat!) and desk. Even photos are potential thought stealers, because they’re people and relationships you’re prone to worry about.
Participate. If you daydream during class, challenge yourself by thinking of questions and actively joining the discussion. You may miss a moment if you’re formulating a question, but you’re more likely to stay focused on the current topic.
While studying. Take time-outs to process the material; mentally recap main points and vocabulary. Periodically think over what you’ve read–it can improve comprehension. Also, try reviewing a chapter in reverse. It may feel odd at first, but the extra effort required will force your brain back into focusing. You may be surprised how much you remember come test time!
Talk it out. Sometimes our mind wonders out of worry. Get your worries off your chest by talking to a friend or family member either in person or on the phone. Avoid texting or messaging about it. It’s more effective if things are said aloud. If the subject matter is just too personal, try journaling. Writing it out, is almost as effective as talking it out. Once things are out in the open, or even on paper, it will free your mind to shift your attention to other things.
