Student doctor Robert Sithole shares the techniques he's learned to retain focus and wellbeing during medical school.

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As a third-year medical student, I often grapple with distractions that hinder my focus. With an overwhelming amount of information to absorb and numerous distractions in my environment, maintaining concentration can be quite challenging. Distraction is pervasive, whether it comes from constant notifications on my phone, the chatter of classmates, or even my own wandering thoughts. I’ve noticed that my brain is naturally inclined to seek instant gratification, making it difficult to engage fully in tasks that require sustained attention. This struggle becomes even more pronounced in a demanding field like medicine, where the workload can feel insurmountable.

Divided focus

One of the biggest mistakes I’ve observed that ruins my focus is multitasking. Like many students, I often believe I can juggle multiple tasks at once, but I’ve found that this approach usually backfires. When I switch between tasks, I waste time and dilute my concentration. Instead of being more productive, I end up feeling scattered and ineffective. Another issue I frequently face is having a poor study environment. I realise that my surroundings significantly influence my ability to concentrate. Studying in a noisy or cluttered space leads to constant distractions, and if my environment isn’t conducive to focus, I’m essentially setting myself up for failure.

Taking breaks

Additionally, I sometimes fall into the trap of working for extended periods without taking breaks. I often think that pushing through will help me finish my work faster, but I’ve learned that my brain needs regular breaks to recharge. Without these pauses, I become mentally fatigued and less efficient. The overuse of technology also poses a significant threat to my focus. While technology can be a helpful learning tool, I’ve noticed it easily becomes a source of distraction. Constant notifications from social media and messaging apps pull me away from my studies and disrupt my concentration. Lastly, I realise that neglecting my mental and physical health can profoundly impact my ability to focus. Poor sleep, unhealthy eating habits, and high levels of stress all lead to a lack of concentration. When I don’t take care of myself, staying focused becomes increasingly difficult.

Being intentional

To improve my focus, I’ve found it essential to set clear goals before starting a study session. Taking a moment to establish specific objectives helps keep me on track and motivated. I break down my study material into smaller, manageable parts, allowing me to tackle each segment one at a time, which feels less overwhelming. Creating a dedicated study space has also proven effective for me. I try to find a quiet area where interruptions are minimised and keeping this space organised and free of clutter signals to my brain that it’s time to focus.

Structured study

Another technique I’ve adopted is the Pomodoro Technique, which involves studying for 25 minutes followed by a 5-minute break. After four study sessions, I take a longer break of 15 to 30 minutes to refresh my mind. This method not only aids my concentration but also helps prevent burnout. I also make it a point to limit technology distractions. Turning off notifications on my phone and computer during study time, along with using apps that block distracting websites, helps me maintain focus. Establishing a tech-free zone has been particularly beneficial.

Lastly, I’ve learned that prioritising self-care is vital for improving my focus. I make sure to get enough sleep, eat nutritious meals, and incorporate physical activity into my daily routine. Taking care of my body and mind significantly enhances my overall well-being. In conclusion, while distractions are a common challenge for many medical students, recognising the mistakes that undermine my focus and implementing practical strategies to overcome them has enhanced my productivity and improved my study time. I’m beginning to understand that focusing is a skill that can be developed, and it is essential for my success in the medical field.

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