Concentration has been defined as the ability to focus thinking in an intended direction (University of Cambridge 2004). Maintaining sufficient concentration levels in order to learn new information, and effectively carry out work tasks and activities, is a general work requirement across all industries.
Most people have the capacity to concentrate adequately at work, but sometimes thoughts can wonder or jump from one thing to another, particularly if tired or distracted by co-workers, noise, telephone calls etc. For people with some form of cognitive impairment, such as a specific learning disability or acquired brain injury, the ability to concentrate is often compromised. This can cause people to feel frustrated with themselves and others, become overwhelmed and easily confused when trying to learn new information, withdraw from others and ultimately underperform (Brain Injury Association of Queensland Inc. 2007).
It is important to recognise that impaired concentration can be related to disability (that is, not intentional) and that understanding and support in the workplace should be made available.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
On the job strategies
There are a number of strategies that can be used to assist people who experience difficulty concentrating at work. These include:
- breaking down job tasks into small steps and using visual prompts for each step in order to assist workers to refocus and continue with tasks if they forget what comes next (for example, use a pin up board or white board displaying flow charts)
- providing workers with to do lists and scheduling regular breaks to accommodate a reduced concentration span (for example, regular 10 minute breaks)
- aiming to schedule the early part of the working day for ‘attention demanding’ tasks or activities—providing a flexible workplace can assist with this.
- fostering a healthy lifestyle for workers, for example, being conscious of stress levels in the workplace, encouraging physical fitness and if lunches are provided, making healthy foods available
- establishing a buddy programme with a co-worker to provide extra support and encouragement for workers who experience concentration problems and need assistance to keep on task (Brain Injury Association of Queensland Inc. 2007).
Aids and Products
There are also various aids and products available that can assist in providing a quiet work environment, free from visual distractions which may be helpful in improving concentration levels for workers (particularly for the office setting). Examples include:
Lastly, providing ergonomic equipment such as desks, chairs and adjustable workstations may further assist by enabling workers to concentrate for longer periods without strain or discomfort.
References
Brain Injury Association of Queensland Inc. 2007, Attention and Concentration - Fact Sheet, Brain Injury Association of Queensland Inc., Brisbane, viewed 13 June 2007, <http://braininjury.org.au/portal/content/view/47/266/ >.
University of Cambridge 2004, Concentration, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, viewed 13 June 2007, <http://www.counselling.cam.ac.uk/concen.html>.