‘Dodging Distractions’

Last Sunday I guess I must have been extremely distracted, by who or what I’m not sure. It was my week to play the organ at church and so I went early as I generally do. I pulled into the church parking lot, put my mask on, grabbed my bag of music and went inside the church. After I had been playing prelude for about 10 mins. A man approached me at the organ and asked me if I had intended to leave my car running. I was totally shocked that I had done that! Was it the onset of dementia or was I so distracted that I lost complete focus of what I was doing? Have you ever been there?

If I could change one thing in my life, that would be to have my husband by my side, but since that isn’t possible for the time being I have chosen to be busy, to serve others and to be as active as possible. I know it is what works for me, it brings me some measure of joy, but I do need more work in staying focused on what I am doing at the present time. My mind seems to wander alot. Dodging distractions can be difficult in our fast paced world. If you struggle with this…. continue reading for a few tips that might help you to stay focused.

Note: distractions can be internal as well as external

1. Take care of yourself. Get plenty of rest, exercise and eat healthy. Spend at least 30 mins. each day doing something you enjoy.
2. If you feel like you have over- extended yourself, cut back on something. You don’t have to say yes to everything.
3. Avoid getting overly stressed. Only you know what you can handle and what you can’t.
4. It seems to help me to write things down when I have alot going on. I cross things off as I accomplish them.
5. Take a break, (daily if possible) from all electronic devices. It can feel so refreshing.
6. Manage your time carefully allowing for the unexpected.
7. Have a checkup if none of these suggestions seem to help you with staying focused.

Be kind to yourself and slow down a little. You’ll be glad you did!

by Tanya Christiansen