For better concentration, F.O.C.U.S.
This article by Sam Horn offers some good advice for improving your ability to concentrate. The secret? FOCUS. As in...
F = Five More Rule
"...if you're in the middle of a task and tempted to give up -- just do FIVE MORE. Read FIVE MORE pages. Finish FIVE MORE math problems. Work FIVE MORE minutes."
O = One Think at a Time
"Instead of telling [your mind] NOT to worry about another, lesser priority (which will cause your mind to think about the very thing it's not supposed to think about!); assign it a single task with start-stop time parameters."
C = Conquer procrastination
"...ask yourself, "Do I have to do this? Do I want it done so it's not on my mind? Will it be any easier later?" Answering those three questions can give you the incentive to mentally apply yourself now."
U = Use Your Hands as Blinkers
"Cup your hands around your eyes so you have "tunnel vision" and are looking solely at your priority project. Placing your hands on the side of your face blocks out surroundings so they are literally "out of sight, out of mind." You are now in âtelephoto focusâ because you are looking at and thinking about only one thing."
S = See As If for the First or Last Time
"Next time your mind is a million miles away, simply look around you and really SEE your surroundings. Study that exquisite flower in the vase. Get up close to the picture on the wall and marvel at the artist's craftsmanship. Lean in and really look at a loved one you tend to take for granted. This will "Velveteen Rabbit" your world and make it come alive before your very eyes."