How to survive a day at work when you are having difficulty concentrating

Finding it hard to concentrate at work is something we are all too familiar with. Let’s face it, it is ever so easy to daydream in the office: – your window has a much better view than your computer screen does, and when you are trying to make a mental note of what you need to buy at the store, or plan how you are going to spend your weekend, the job in hand just gets in the way, resulting is a momentary lapse of concentration.

However, difficulty concentrating is a common symptom of menopause so a high percentage of women who are going through “the change” will find that they are suffering with the problem for much longer periods of time than usual. They are also likely to experience disorientation, forgetfulness and lost trains of thought, which can have negative effects on their day. Fortunately, this symptom occurs because of an imbalance of hormones so there are certain lifestyle changes and techniques that you can employ in the workplace, or on a workday, that will increase concentration levels.

How can I combat poor concentration levels at work?

Finding it hard to concentrate will make certain aspects of your work and social life very difficult to deal with and might result in poor performance at work or poor relationships. Try to follow these simple steps and get razor sharp concentration so that work does not become a strenuous or daunting task:

DON’T drive. DO walk or cycle.

Exercise is a vital ingredient for keeping the mind sharp so try to swap your car for a pair of walking shoes, or a bike, in the morning. Even just 30 minutes of aerobic exercise can influence your concentration levels because it boosts your energy levels. Combining exercise with your work routine will mean that you don’t have to drastically change your day-to-day lifestyle to fit it in and also means that you will be more prepared for the day ahead.

DON’T be messy. DO have a comfortable workspace.

Having a clean desk might seem trivial, but it is important. Ensure you have an adequate amount of work space and have any essential work items on the desk so that you don’t find yourself getting up too often. Any distractions should also be moved. It is worth considering how you work best. You might prefer to work in silence, or you may enjoy being surrounded by colleagues who can motivate you. Whichever it is, ask your manager if they can sort out an appropriate desk for you.

DON’T take coffee breaks, DO take water breaks.

Break down your work projects into smaller and more manageable chunks. By doing this, the task won’t seem as daunting and you are more likely to be determined to complete it. It also allows for convenient interval periods where you can pause from work for a moment, or to break for a drink. If you do this, then avoid any caffeine based drink. Although you might think that they improve concentration span, and make you more alert, they only do so for a very short period of time. The come-down from these stimulants makes you sleepy and won’t improve your concentration levels in the long run.

DON’T bore your brain. DO exercise your brain.

If your brain isn’t stimulated then your attention span suffers. The key to treating this menopausal symptom is to keep your brain mentally active. Have a book of Sudoku puzzles or crosswords on your desk and open it up on your lunch break or before work has even started. It will improve your focus.

DON’T get into bad habits in the evening. DO relax and de-stress.

Once you have finished work and returned home, it’s important you take the right measures to prepare for the next day. You need a well balanced diet which is rich in nutrients, alcohol should be avoided and you need to get a good night of rest. However, you should also make time for yourself and use stress-relief methods, like meditation or yoga, which will aid a woman’s concentration.

More information about difficulty concentrating

Two in every three women suffer with this symptom during menopause. It often comes out of nowhere but can last for a long period of time, heavily affecting many aspects of the female’s life. Making changes to your daily routine will be beneficial, but challenging. Follow this link to find out more about difficulty concentrating and how to treat it.