focus - the key to contentment

Marcus Aurelius (121-180 AD) wrote, "Most of what we say and do is not essential. If you can eliminate it, you'll have more time and more tranquility. Ask yourself at every moment, 'Is it necessary?'"
     Most people do not accomplish as much as they truly could if they simply knew how to focus more on the job at hand for a specific amount of time. Being able to focus clearly on a task is important these days is simple because it helps you to get so much more accomplished in that time period. And by focusing you mind totally on the job at hand, you allow the creative juices to flow improving the quality and strength of your work. And focusing on one task for a specific period of time results in less stress resulting in a happier, more contented and tranquil life.
     There are so many distractions these days like television, radio, smart phones, social media, and even other people around you. And if you are working on several projects at a time, you often find yourself distracted by those other tasks that also need to get done. Then every thing seems difficult, concentration is lessened and you're unable to keep to one project at a time.
    What I'm about to say may sound way too simplistic, but if you focus your attention on one task for a specific amount of time, your brain becomes focused on that task alone allowing you to "git 'er done," as the meme goes. I have found that if I start by removing anything from my desk that does not apply to the work I need to get done, then I am able to keep to that task for a longer period of time. If not, my eye always seems to find something laying around that I "need to do right then." Thus the task I had started doesn't get done.
      Focusing on only one task at a time (without distractions), allows you to get through the job and complete it with less errors or mistakes. Some experts indicate that your creativity kicks in easier and you work is of a higher quality when you're focused on one task at a time. You might even find yourself thinking of new ideas about it or perhaps a better way to approach the issue or problem.
     Of course, people around you along with all of the other distractions can lower your productivity levels. That then significantly raises your frustration and stress levels. And then you start worry about that and start making mistakes. I have tried to instill this concept in my grandson's mind. But, as you can imagine, being a teenager, he's much more interested in texting his friends and feeling connected. All that is good in maintaining your social connections, but not at the risk of finding yourself constantly stressed out because you're not getting your work done.
     Keep your mind on one thing for thirty, forty, or maybe even fifty minutes at a time can greatly increase your task completion rates and lower the overall stress and frustration levels. Then your life will be so much easier to live and even more enjoyable. You will begin to love life fully even more than you do already!

---