Environment

The environment you find yourself in can affect your ability to focus and be productive.

If there is a certain space that you associate with being productive it will probably be easier to focus if you are there.

Temperature

When we get cold it means we're expending more energy to keep ourselves warm. This increased energy expenditure to regulate body temperature can lead to fatigue and distraction, making it difficult to focus on work. When temperatures are too warm, it can cause discomfort, fatigue, and dehydration, leading to reduced concentration and increased errors. Like with cold temperatures, warm temperatures can also cause distractions, as individuals try to cool themselves down. Research suggests that the optimal temperature for productivity in the workplace is around 70-73°F (21-23°C), as this provides a comfortable environment that allows individuals to focus and work effectively.

Noise

Can be a source of distraction, especially if it is uneven it may grab your attention every time it starts or stops. Talking can also be distracting even if it isn't very loud. The best option is of course to go to a space where noise is not a problem in the first place. Go to a place without distracting noise or tell people who make distracting noise to go somewhere else. If that is not an option then drowning out the distracting noise may be possible.

Noise cancelling headphones can be effective for getting rid of noise and chatter. As an alternative or addition to noise canceling, playing something for yourself to drown out the distracting noise. Some people even prefer working with these focus tracks over silence.

Some popular options for focus sounds:

• musicForProgramming(); (free)
• Focus@Will (paid)
• Brain.fm (paid)

Producing environmental noises to drown out distracting noises is also an option. For instance a small spring.

Light

Light should be sufficient for completing the task at hand. If it is too dim, it might be necessary to strain to see what's needed. Light that is too bright and direct can be distracting and cause squinting which can in the worst cases lead to headaches. If working with a monitor, bright light from some angles can make it difficult to see what's on the screen. Sufficient amounts of light can probably also improve seasonal affective disorder. For extreme case studies, look into lumenators.

Air humidity

• Chapped lips
• Dry hands and skin
• Static shocks

Organization

How disorganised or tidy the space is. If the working space is disorganised it may be distracting to work with. If stuff is in the way it may be necessary to spend time to clear tidy up an area to work on before work can be started. Clutter may break attention when trying to focus because they are a reminder that it is necessary to tidy up or do other things with the stuff. Difficulty finding the tools you need can be distracting and hurt your motivation.