Create space for work

If you can, make a quiet, designated space for work. Desk organizers, noise-canceling headphones, an adjustable monitor, and adjustable lighting can benefit those who are unable to have a well-appointed office. Make your space as ergonomic and comfortable as you can, keep clutter out of sight, and try to maintain it clean and well-ventilated.

Social media and other apps should be closed, alerts should be turned off, and your phone should be kept out of sight in a bag or backpack. As described in HBR, researchers found that having the phone out of sight—as instead of simply being switched off—significantly improved cognitive performance. Your main priority is to finish the tasks at hand. By creating space for work, you may improve your ability to concentrate by turning off both internal and external distractions.