Clock in. Clock Out. In some work environments, the first thing that comes to mind in the morning is figuring out the exact time when you’re going to be heading home. But this is not the case at craftworks. It’s not only about silencing notifications or putting headphones on. It’s about approaching each task with a purpose and a clear goal in mind.

Still too abstract? To understand anything in this world – in our case the concept of concentration – it is best to compare it with its opposite. In this case, the opposite of focus is distraction.

Distraction comes in many forms: a really noisy fly or a thought of something you did 5 years ago. It can be something external or something in your head. Focus, on the other hand, occurs first in your mind. If there are no distractions, you’re in a focused state of mind. Easier said than done. It’s almost inevitable not to have distractions. In my defense, when I had to sit down and concentrate a little more for a longer period of time, I put my headphones on, and I switched off my notifications. I really had to clear my mind and start with a clean slate. That‘s how my brain works – at least I think so.

One important thing when it comes to focus and staying focused is to always keep the bigger picture, the goal or the purpose of the task at hand in mind.

At craftworks we have so many people who are excellent at being focused and there’s a lot you can actually learn from them.

I think the best way to focus is to practice it. Thankfully, craftworks is a space for me where I am able to practice and learn without getting in the way of anyone, well – except in my own. Sometimes, thought can get the better of you.