Tune Out the Noise

(This blog was originally posted on July 22, 2014)

Photo courtesy of Fotolia

      Even if you enjoy working in a busy environment, sometimes even a little bit of noise is too much of a distraction. The sound of ringing phones, the constant thwack-thwack sound of typing on computer keyboards and the distant din of conversations in the break room are about to send you through the roof. Your project deadline is looming, but you doubt you will be able to accomplish anything at all with all of this chaos going on around you. Help!

     One of the most useful techniques I have found to facilitate working in a chaotic office environment is to simply convert the annoying external stimuli into a form of white noise that will deepen your focus and sense of calm. As soon as you enter a busy work environment and before you start to feel overwhelmed, draw several slow, deep breaths through your nose. Visualize, imagine, picture or pretend that you are inhaling the amount and kind of energy you need to focus on and accomplish your task. When you exhale, release the breath through your mouth. Focus on releasing any emotional frustration and/or physical tension you may be carrying in your body. Give yourself the following suggestion: “Every sound and everything I see around me is helping to deepen my focus and concentration and improve my attention to detail on what I am working on. I give myself permission to take regular breaks in my work so I can continue to be creative and energetic. The whole time, I am and will remain completely alert and aware of everything that is going on in my environment so my colleagues and I can and will continue to work safely and efficiently.” 

     Your subconscious mind is most suggestible to you; therefore, it is important to use positive words and positive energy when you craft this suggestion. Be sure to drink plenty of water and eat meals and snacks that contain protein to sustain your energy, stamina and focus at work. This technique is not designed to help you tune-out to aspects of your environment but will enable you to continue to work well despite the environmental distractions around you. Do not use this technique while driving or operating heavy machinery.

Sara R. Fogan, C.Ht. is a certified hypnotherapist based in Southern California. She graduated with honors from the Hypnosis Motivation Institute in 2005. For more information about Calminsense Hypnotherapy® and to set up an appointment, please visit http://www.calminsensehypnotherapy.com/.

© 2015