Sometimes it seems that for as many hours there are in the day. We all know the feeling of being overwhelmed by distractions. In order to get a little clarity and quiet the buzz in your brain, there are strategies that will help you keep a quiet focus. In addition to feeling calmer and more focused, you’ll probably be more efficient too.

Turn off the background noise
What you thought was “white noise” from the TV or radio could be a bigger distraction than you realize.

Have a calming mantra
Post a sign or post-it near your workspace that says something along the lines of “quiet mind.” That will be your signal to take a deep breath and try to relax.

Clean up
Organize space so it’s attractive, well organized and well lit. Make sure your office or desk is orderly, comfortable and well lit, so you are in the optimal space to be productive. Outer order contributes to inner calm.

Take it one thing at a time
If you feel that you are getting pulled in different directions, just stop and focus on one task until it’s completed.

Switch off your cell phone
Or if you can’t turn off your ringer for whatever reason, shut off the tweet/text/e-mail alerts, especially if you know you jump every time you hear it. Hearing your cell phone ring is a big source of jumpiness. Turning off your email for some parts of the day will also help.

Take a break
Go through your to-do list and prioritize. Ask yourself, does this really need to get done today or can I do it tomorrow?

Use the Internet sparingly
If you know you’ll only need it for a specific bit of research, get it out of the way and then unplug while you do the rest of your work. This will help you avoid the urge to go down a browsing rabbit hole.

Stop counting
Avoid looking at clocks, contracts, bank statements, bathroom scales or anything that has to do with numbers in order to let the other part of your brain take over.

Exercise
Taking regular breaks is good for focus, but within limits. Consider taking a short walk every hour or so, or stretching at your space.

Flee temptation
It’s important to have dedicated space in which to think and work.