Disabling Distractions

Students (and everyone) have multiple distractions including electronic devices, friends, family, money worries, hunger and more.  Here are some suggestions for dealing with distractions that disrupt your concentration and learning:


Electronics:

• Turn them off!
• If you cannot bear to do that, set a time limit and allow yourself to check in every hour or two.  This is easier said then done, however.  One thing you can do is set a timer on your p hone and don't look at it until the timer goes off!
• If it just seems too hard, start with a shorter period of time and gradually lengthen it.
• The more often you do this the easier it will be. You may also find your concentration improving!

Other worries such as family issues and money concerns:

• These are tough to handle.  One idea that sounds crazy is to write your concerns down on paper and then put it aside.  Concretely writing them down seems to help you let it go from your mind for a period of time.
• You can also set aside a time to worry and then, when the time it up, get back to studying.
• Seek out a counseling center on your campus and talk to someone there.  Verbalizing your concerns is very helpful.
• If people keep calling and texting you and getting upset if you don't answer, tell them where you will be, that you are studying and then give them a specific time when you will check in.  You will have to remember to do this or it will only work once!  Again - set your phone alarm to remind you.

Friends:

• If your friends are providing too much of a distraction to your college studies, you might have to consider getting new friends.  They should want the best for you, and if they are getting in the way of your success that is a problem!  Try to convince them to join you in the Library, or just tell them you have to study and will meet them later.

There are several strategies that will help in general:

• Study in a location conducive to concentration - the Library, desk, study room, etc.  Don't expect to focus and concentrate while reading in bed or in front of the television.
• Stick to a study routine.  Always study before and/or after class or at the same time every day.  You will become accustomed to studying at a certain time and in a certain place and your mind will automatically focus.

Concentration and focus can be learned!  Don't give up and be sure you are arranging your environment to be successful!
Next week - what to do if you are completely uninterested in a class you must take.
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First Semester Success: Learning Strategies and Motivation for Your First Semester (or Any Semester) of College, by Dr. Arden B. Hamer is available at wordassociation.com, amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com.  Click on the upper right link.