Let’s be real – staying focused at work is tough on a normal day, but when the world’s blowing up with news, notifications, and all the rest, it’s even harder. 

...Wait, there was an election this week?!?

If you’re finding it tricky to tune out the noise and crack on with what’s actually in front of you, here’s a practical guide to help you stay on task.

1. Keep It Basic.

First up, get the basics right. This isn’t groundbreaking, but it works. Get some decent sleep, stay hydrated, and eat something other than caffeine and a sad desk sandwich. It’s hard to focus when you’re hangry and tired, so start with the essentials.

2. Create Your Own 'Focus Zone'

Turn your desk into a fortress of focus. This doesn’t mean buying plants or motivational posters – just cut the distractions. Put the phone on silent, grab some noise-canceling headphones, and only keep the essentials within arm's reach. Think of it as a mini bubble for productivity.

3. Tackle Big Tasks in Bite-Sized Chunks

Massive to-do list? Intimidating projects? Slice them down into manageable chunks, and tick off each step as you go. Trust us, those small wins add up, and they keep you moving forward without the overwhelm. Progress is progress, no matter how small.

4. Don’t Skip the Breaks

This might sound counterproductive, but stepping away actually helps you get more done. Set a timer: 25 minutes of solid work, 5-minute break. Use the break to do something non-work related: grab a coffee, scroll (for just a minute), stretch. It keeps your mind fresh and stops burnout in its tracks.

5. Limit the Doomscroll

News is important...until it isn’t. Constant updates kill your productivity and make it hard to focus. Try setting specific times to check in on the outside world rather than scrolling all day. You’ll be less distracted and more likely to get something meaningful done.

6. Try a Bit of Mindfulness (Yes, Really)

Before you roll your eyes, hear us out: a quick breathing exercise can make a huge difference. A few minutes of mindfulness pulls your mind back from the outside chaos and gives you a reset, letting you dive back into work with a clearer head.

The world might be loud, but you’ve got things to do. Try these strategies and see if they help you find a bit of calm in the chaos...because, at the end of the day, focus is a skill you can build, even when everything else feels like it’s falling apart.