There are several tips available for developing better concentration, and each person may have to experiment in order to find the methods that work best in an individual situation. Dietary changes are often helpful in attaining better concentration, especially if nutritional deficiencies are present. Behavior modification techniques and eliminating unnecessary distractions may also be helpful. In some cases, such as for those who have medical conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, prescription medications may be used to help with better concentration abilities. A medical professional should be consulted before making any significant dietary or lifestyle changes.
Nutritional deficiencies can frequently lead to concentration problems. A consistent, healthy diet is one of the best ways to enhance the ability to concentrate. Whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, and grains contain many nutrients that can encourage better concentration. Foods such as sugar and caffeine may seem to help for a short period of time, but if used in excess, the ability to focus and concentrate may be severely compromised.
Behavior modification techniques may be beneficial in promoting better concentration for many people. One example of this is to train the mind to work on a project five minutes longer than what seems possible. Over time, focus and concentration will be increased. It also helps to avoid procrastination whenever possible. When a project is delayed, stress, worry, and guilt often surface, greatly impacting the ability to effectively focus.
Eliminating unnecessary distractions can go a long way when attempting to develop better concentration skills. External noise, such as a radio or television, can prevent adequate focus. It is often helpful to work alone in a quiet room when working on a project that requires intense concentration. Physical distractions such as drowsiness or hunger should be properly controlled so that concentration and focus become easier.
Emotional issues such as stress often inhibit the ability to concentrate. Some people may benefit from stress-relieving techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga. These activities are not usually recommended when a person is already tired, as a deeper level of relaxation may cause the person to fall asleep. If these tips do not provide better concentration, it may be wise to consult a doctor so that medical issues such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, can be either diagnosed or ruled out. Concentration issues that develop as a result of an underlying medical condition can sometimes be remedied through the use of prescription medications.