She Strengthens

Staying Focused in Uncertain Times

The Struggle is Real

Are you tired of feeling like you’re stuck in a never-ending cycle of distraction? Do you find yourself constantly zoning out, unable to focus on the task at hand? You’re not alone. With the current state of the world, it’s no wonder our minds are wandering more than ever.

A Personal Story

I’ll never forget the time I took Adderall at a Dolly Parton concert. My friend Kate offered me one, and I have to admit, I was curious. As someone who’s struggled with impulse control my entire life, I was hoping it would help me feel more “normal.” While it didn’t quite have the effect I was hoping for, it did teach me the power of rituals in staying present.

The Power of Rituals

Drugs may work, but so do simple rituals that help us focus on the present moment. It’s all about mindset. Whether it’s a high-five, a funny phrase, or a quick meditation session, these small actions can make a big difference in our ability to concentrate.

Feeling Present in a Pandemic

Fast-forward to today, and it’s clear that staying present is harder than ever. Life has taken on a dream-like quality, leaving us wondering what’s real and what’s not. It’s easy to get caught up in distractions, but what if we could use these moments to our advantage?

The Art of Pausing

Sometimes, the best way to interrupt long periods of zoning out is to give ourselves permission to take a break. It’s like hitting the reload button on a video game – our brains just need a little rest. By acknowledging that we can pay attention if we want to, but don’t have to, we can take the pressure off and allow ourselves to recharge.

Practical Tips for Staying Focused

So, what can you do when you find yourself zoning out?

• Let yourself take a break. Sometimes, shutting down for an hour or so can be just what you need to refocus.
• Try napping. A short power nap can work wonders for your productivity.
• Be kind to yourself. Remember that you’re allowed to zone out, and it’s okay to take a step back.
• Give yourself generous deadlines for completing tasks. This will help you stay on track without feeling overwhelmed.
• Take care of yourself first. Letting go of guilt and stress is key to navigating uncertain times.

A Final Thought

As Nicole Georges, a graphic novelist, so beautifully put it, “Act the way you want to be, and have the patience for it to catch up with you.” The next time you’re feeling guilty about zoning out, remember that it’s okay to take a break. Take care of yourself, and the rest will follow.