How can I be less absent minded?

Question

How can I be less absent minded?

My head doesn't process as much as it use to. During class or while reading a book, I have trouble focusing on the present. I miss out on important information. I forget where I put my wallet, my mind doesn't have focus. How can I get my brain, focus, motivation? working again? There are so many things I want to accomplish, but when I have these problems I feel like I am stuck in a puddle of mud.

Answer 1

Repeat things in your mind. Everything. If you repeat things to yourself either as you hear them or soon after, you are more likely to remember them.

Carry a notepad and write down EVERYTHING. My sister does that. Everything from sales at the mall she hears about on the radio to people she needs to call back.

Hm. There are "brain training" games out there like Brain Age for Nintendo DS. If you do it right and follow the instructions, it should help.

Try playing memory games on the computer.

Really, it's about practicing it. I believe it's called long-term potentiation (not sure about spelling). It's when you practice things in your head in order to make it sort of... set it stone. My band director (who has a degree in psychology) said that our brians are like grass. You know if you walk the same path in grass it wears out over time? That's what happens in our brains. If we keep walking the same path over and over, it sorta sticks.

Answer 2

No matter what age you are, or what gender, exercising always helps. Whether it is a 6 mile run on a mountain road or a simple fast-paced walk to to grocery store, doing something for your body will also impact your brain and your focus.

I think eating healthy too is critical to focus and being less absent minded. Instead of a soda for lunch, drink vitamin-water and eat some fruit. Avoid fatty burgers and do not over eat, since overeating will only make you sleepy and less focused.

Another simple solution is practice and determination. Set yourself a goal. Say, "i'm going to read these 20 pages now," and actually follow through with it. Take small steps and keep a positive attitude.

I have had the same problem when I was in college until a friend suggested these techniques. They really work, as long as you keep it consistent.

Hope this helps, and good luck!

Answer 3

I understand the problem you are having. I used to get that way A LOT. Still do on somethings. For mis-placing things you just have to simplify your stuff. I have an exact place I put my keys, glasses, purse and computer. I had to do it every day for about a month before it became a habit. Do this with all your stuff. But not all at once. Each month pick something to work on. I started doing some online games to get my mind quicker. I played card games, did trivia, played Soduko, did crossword puzzles. Now I do one of these a day. Try not to set yourself too many goals at once. I worked on being present with just my friends first. I would consciously listen to them, repeat it back to them and then continue the conversation. This exercise helps. First friends and then maybe one class, or one lecture. Meditation helped a bunch too. It kept my mind balanced. Make sure you are sleeping enough, drinking enough water, and eating healthy. I am so much sharper now that I do those things as well. You might also get checked out for ADD. This might be your only problem and if so you could take medication for it or do behavior modification. Also realize some people need to read information, some need to talk about information, some need to listen to audio and some need visual. You should figure out how you learn best

Answer 4

Created systems for coping. Like having a white board and writing notes on it. Develop positive patterns of behavior. Before you leave the house each day take a inventory. Stand in front the door and check for your wallet, keys, books, etc. Do it everytime. When you're home place your keys and other things in the same place everytime and you'll be able to find them when you want them. If your place is messy organize it. You'll still be absent-minded but you'll be much more functional and contented with yourself.

It could also be your diet. Are you eating the right foods? Getting enough oxygenated blood to your brain? I'm serious here. This could cause absent mindness.

Answer 5

I used to snap out like that too, however once i started to listen and listen carefully to what someone was saying i was using that to focus and i learned so much from class. it proved to my advantage once i remained focused on what the instructor was telling me currently. I go to a local university so no one talks in class its just the professor giving a lecture. Listen get into what they/he/she is saying it can work for you.

Answer 6

simplify and focus, keep your mind in the present, on what you are doing. this will take daily practice, discipline is learned art......practice it everyday in all things you do.

in zen Buddhism, the zen practitioner strives for perfection in everything he does even the most simple of task. occupy your mind with whatever you are doing at that time and nothing else. this will be hard but you can do it .

Answer 7

You may not want them as badly as you think you do.

It is likely that "wanting" is part of the problem. If you are always in the state of wanting, you are likely not going to be able to focus on what is around you and what you need to remember.

I found that letting go of impatience is a remedy to a faulty memory.

Answer 8

Cut back on the hemp.

Answer 9

What was the question, again?