HealthInfo Canterbury
Tips for paying attention
Being able to pay attention means we can process all kinds of information, under many different conditions. It means we can focus on things, concentrate, ignore distractions, do two things at once and switch between tasks.
You might find it has become difficult to stay focused when you are having a conversation or doing something. There are things you can do that will help you to pay attention to the task at hand.
Managing fatigue
Know your limit and watch for signs that you need to take a break.- Plan rest times every day (using an electronic organiser might help).
- Plan to complete demanding tasks during the time of day that you are most alert (perhaps in the mornings).
- You can also read about tips for Conserving energy.
Managing distractions
- Arrange your home environment to minimise any distractions, for example make sure you can turn off the TV or radio when you are talking.
- If other thoughts keep interrupting, write them down so you know you can attend to them later.
- Silently tell yourself to pay attention when you are listening or reading.
Managing more than one task
- When possible, give yourself time to adjust when you are changing tasks.
- When changing tasks, say out loud what you are currently doing.
- If you must do two things at once, do one thinking task, such as talking, and one automatic physical task, such as folding the laundry.
Written by community speech-language therapists, Canterbury DHB. Adapted by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed November 2020.
SourcesImage courtesy of Ambro at FreeDigitalPhotos.Net
Review key: HISCD-79694
