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TOP 5 Tips for Staying Focused During Shelter in Place
Author: ruth       Apr 18th, 2020

Schedules, routines & priorities have been turned upside down and people are complaining they are unfocused and distracted.

  • 1. NOTICE … Notice when you are becoming distracted and aimless.And importantly, notice without judgement. By noticing when we feel distracted we are more than1/2-way towards finding a focus. Noticing (otherwise known as mindfulness) is a wonderful tool to bring us back to the present and to a higher level of consciousness. 
  • 2. SCHEDULE …. Just because we are sheltering in place doesn’t mean you should drop your schedule. Think about: setting regular times to wake up/go to sleep each day; make sure you brush your teeth, get dressed, and fix your hair; eat at regular intervals; and try to incorporate other people into your schedule, even virtually. By consciously navigating your time you will not only feel more grounded, but you’ll probably accomplish more. It’s also important to schedule social media time as it is a major reason people are feeling aimless and distracted. 
  • 3. Set one BIG GOAL …. It’s not too late! Let it strike your fancy. Whatever it is, it will be something that when you look back you will remember you were able to achieve it. This will boost self-esteem and connection to what is important for you. It will also give your something inspiring to focus on each day which is a big component to wellness and being grounded. Humans want to feel productive.
  • 4. “ATTEND” LIVE EVENTS …. During this time people can easily feel lonely or disconnected which leads to aimlessness.As humans we need to co-regulate in order to soothe our nervous system. We do this by interacting with other people. So try to attend live events such as a church service, a concert, a talk/seminar, plan a virtual dinner party, or attend a live yoga class. There are tons of resources online. If you are regularly able to co-regulate you will feel more connected and alive.
  • 5. Be PATIENT AND COMPASSIONATE … This is an intense time.  The whole world is confronting something powerful and new. Everyone is dealing with it in their own way. I encourage you to be gentle with yourself as you navigate this new reality and also be gentle with others and what they might be going through. By treating yourself with kindness you will reduce conditions such as anxiety, insecurity, or depression and increase your ability to make decisions, be less distracted, and be excited about life.

Copyright 2020 Ruth Krumbhaar. Marriage and Family Therapist MFC53637.