Photo by: Crystal Sing via Canva
“The ability to focus is an important driver of excellence.” Harvard Business Review
How do you feel about your ability to stay focused? Are you a superstar, or could you use a boost? For me, two to three hours is a long time to stay focused. Coincidentally, that’s how long it takes to deliver one session of training in the virtual classroom. And my job as a virtual classroom producer depends on me staying focused for the entire session, even through one or two breaks.
So, if you’re like me (which I suspect many of you are), you’re probably wondering what you can do to stay focused and perhaps even improve your focus? One helpful suggestion—exercise!
Don’t worry, I’m not suggesting we all become marathon runners. But if you are, good for you! I’m recommending something as simple as a 10 to 20-minute walk or some stretching before a workshop.
Sure, sometimes it’s hard to fit exercise in with all the other projects, calls, emails, meetings, etc. we have on our plates, but try to make the time and allow yourself the chance to experience the benefits.
Exercise:
1. Boosts the brain’s dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin levels which enhances focus and attention.
2. Increases your heartrate which, in turn, increases your energy level.
3. Helps reduce feelings of anxiety and generally improves your mood.
4. Impacts the hippocampus which is the part of the brain that is important for memory and learning.
So, if you thought exercise wasn’t directly related to training, perhaps you’ll reconsider. Exercise is as important to successful job performance as knowing the material and having the proper equipment.
Next time you have a training session, plug in a small chunk of time in your schedule to get your heart pumping and to stretch your limbs. Your brain will thank you! And whether you’re delivering the training or attending as a learner, the results will convince you to continue with exercise as part of your routine.
What’s your favorite pre-training exercise or routine? What do you do before a workshop to maximize your focus?
In just one short week, you can gain the skills to master either virtual classroom facilitation or traditional in-person facilitation.
