The most recent brain research is so powerful: evidence shows that your brain can learn to ignore distractions, helping you develop more focus and more creativity. When people are turning to Sudoku or doses of gingko biloba to stay mentally sharp, 50-somethings take heart: you can brain-train easily for greater mental acuity. The three steps to harnessing this power are described in a recent article from The Harvard Business Review. Create new habits to train your brain for sharper focus.
Quiet the Chaos
Modern life—plugged into iPhones, Androids, big-screen TVs and such—can create such a frenzy that even the most Zen-like persona can become anxious, agitated and distracted. The negativity from this emotional overload interferes with the human brain’s ability to solve problems and think critically. POSITIVE emotions and possibility thinking do the opposite; they improve the brain’s problem-solving function and help with strategic and creative thinking.
Since negative thoughts stick to the brain like Velcro and positive thoughts fall away like Teflon-coating, you must boost your Losada Ratio (check yours now). Mathematically, you need a 3:1 Positive-to-Negative Ratio to quiet the chaos and release the negativity. Evidence proves that exercise, meditation and plenty of good sleep increase positivity. Take Notice. Become more aware when an irritating person or situation begins to grate on your nerves, and do this: acknowledge the feelings, take a few deep breaths and let those toxic feelings go.
Slow It Down
Our brains are constantly scanning our interior and exterior domains, but when we need to focus, our brains can stop distractions—thoughts, feelings or unnecessary actions. Try what therapists describe as the ABC Method to stop interrupters: A_become AWARE of your choices to pay attention or ignore; B_BREATHE deeply to physically switch your circuits while you’re weighing your options; and C_CHOOSE thoughtfully: will you pay attention to the distraction or ignore it?
Practice Shifting Sets
If you stall out, try the simple method of set-shifting, and “Take a physical break.” The strategy of set-shifting means getting physical: moving your body to allow it to overcome your mind. Let’s say that you’re in a group meeting, and the energy and ideation stalls out. Take a five-minute break and require everyone to do something physical (not run out to check their e-mails). These breaks lead to better energy and ideas when you reconvene. Whether you’re aware of it or not, while you’re on a walk or spending a few minutes stretching or climbing the stairs, your mind uses the physical “Focus Break” to continue working on the problem.
So, c’mon! Capitalize on the latest trends in brain training, and teach your brain to ignore distractions and focus better. Tame the frenzy, put on the brakes and do some set-shifting. It’s science that works.
Happily yours,
Dr Mell
Dr Mell
P.S. Good News! Ipsos Global, a marketing research firm with 24 years of experience measuring human well-being for worldwide reporting, indicates that people around the globe say they are happier than they were in 2007. Happier! Despite devastating natural disasters and serious economic, social and political unrest, people say they are happier: Here’s the Evidence from NBC News
