Concentration: the ability to direct your thinking

We all have the ability to concentrate -- sometimes. Think of the times when you were "lost" in something you enjoy: a sport, playing music, a good game, a movie. Total concentration.


What you can control in your studies:

"Here I study"
Get a dedicated space, chair, table, lighting and environment
Avoid your cellphone or telephone
Put up a sign to avoid being disturbed or interrupted
If you like music in the background, OK, but don't let it be a distraction. (Research on productivity with music versus without music is inconclusive)
Stick to a routine, efficient study schedule
Accommodate your day/nighttime energy levels
Focus
Before you begin studying, take a few minutes to summarize a few objectives, gather what you will need, and think of a general strategy of accomplishment
Incentives
Create an incentive if necessary for successfully completing a task,
such as calling a friend, a food treat, a walk, etc.

Change topics
Vary your study activities

Take regular, scheduled breaks that fit you
Do something different from what you've been doing (e.g., walk around if you've been sitting), and in a different area
Rewards


Best Practice:



Be here now | Worry time |Energy level | Visualize


Be Here Now

When you notice your thoughts wandering astray, say to yourself

"Be here now"

and gently bring your attention back to where you want it.

Worry or Think Time



Set aside a specific time each day to think about
the things that keep entering your mind and interfering with your concentration.


When you become aware of a distracting thought,
remind yourself that you have a special time to think about them,


Let the thought go,
perhaps with "Be here now,"


Keep your appointment
to worry or think about those distracting issues



Maximize your energy level
When is your energy level at its highest? When are your low energy times?
Study your most difficult courses at your high energy times.

Visualize
As an exercise before you begin studying, think of those times when concentration is not a problem for you--no matter what situation. Now try to feel or image yourself in that situation. Recapture that experience immediately before your studies by placing yourself in that moment.. Repeat before each study session.