7 Signs You Are Easily Distracted

If you notice that you may be easily distracted, it may be time to take a step back and re-evaluate your habits. There are lots of signs that you can be mindful of that signal that you are easily distracted. Here are a few:

1. You can’t focus on one task for more than a few minutes.

If you can’t seem to focus on anything for more than a few minutes, it’s hard to get anything done. Fortunately, you can try to diminish this by:

• ✓  Finding a quiet workplace where you won’t be interrupted by others or outside noise.
• ✓  Breaking up your tasks
• ✓  Setting a timer

2. You often find yourself daydreaming or spacing out.

Daydreaming and spacing out are signs that you’re not fully focused on the task. If you notice this often, it’s essential to try and bring yourself back to the present moment. For example, ground yourself by focusing on your breath and counting each inhale and exhale.

3. You have trouble paying attention when others are talking to you.

Do you ever talk to someone whom you can’t understand what they’re saying because your mind is elsewhere? This can be frustrating for you and the person you’re talking to. To try and mitigate this, make sure to:

• ✓  Make eye contact with the person speaking.
• ✓  Repeat what you heard them say to them to ensure you understand them.
• ✓  Ask questions about what they’re saying.

4. You are easily distracted by noises or other activities going on around you.

If the noise, lights, or other distractions around you are impossible to ignore, you will need to mitigate this problem anytime you need to be in a space like that. To reduce this, try:

Wearing headphones to block out external noise.
✓ Working in a quiet place where there won’t be much activity around you.

5. You often lose track of time and miss deadlines.

Missing deadlines is a sign that you need to be more mindful of how you’re spending your time. Set a timer or alarm to keep yourself on track.

6. You can’t stay organized or keep track of your belongings.

Losing your stuff is frustrating and can get you off track as you search for your belongings. To try and prevent this, make sure to:

✓ Have a designated place for all your belongings.
✓ Make a list of actions to take, including when you need to do it. ✓ Stick to a routine as much as possible.

7. You are constantly moving and can’t seem to sit still.

Nothing is wrong with fidgeting, as it is a great calorie burner, but if you can’t slow down enough to focus on a task, it can present problems. This can be frustrating and make it difficult to concentrate on your work. Try:

• ✓  Getting up and moving for at least every 90 minutes.
• ✓  Taking breaks often to move your body and get some fresh air.
• ✓  Finding a comfortable place to work where you won’t feel the need to move around constantly.Mindfully consider whether you are experiencing any of these signs. If you experience one or more of them regularly, chances are you are easily distracted. If you are, try some mitigation ideas to change your situation. You completely control your distraction level even if you find out you ultimately need additional assistance from a medical professional.