In our work we can face many distractions through emails, messages, phone calls and to do lists. Our senses can get very quickly overloaded and we can feel the overwhelm rising.

Feeling distracted is one of the most discussed themes that researchers bring when I speak to them. There is a lot to think about, many responsibilities and expectations to fulfil, deadlines to reach. When there is too much going on around and as distractions rise anxiety rises too. This creates a circle and the way to break it is to stop for a while and give yourself permission to be still for a moment.

In those moments I would very much encourage you to pause for a little bit and take a step back. Turn off notifications, close your inbox when you want to focus and keep only the tabs open that relate to your work. Be clear when your working day starts and when does it finish. Understand what working environment is best for you. Respect your working style and listen to what you need to focus. We are all different types of learners. Some researchers need a quiet space to work, others prefer open offices and some like to listen to music when they work. These are all options to choose from. Respect your boundaries and share them with others.

I have talked about mobiles in many of my previous blogs. They are great devices for many things but only if kept under control. Otherwise, they are the biggest distraction which can negatively affect your wellbeing - also because they have a great ability to take you away from the present moment. Put your phone down regularly. Disconnect. Instead, focus on the people around you. Go for a walk in nature. There, you can fully engage your senses which brings you fully to the now.

Over the years, martial arts have been the space for me that enables me to reset and reconnect with all my senses. It has provided stability, and I always get reminded about its importance in my life. What matters in martial arts is intension. Awareness is a great starting point with everything. When you become aware and clear of what is not working for you; you can start dealing with it.

In one of the latest talks with my karate teacher we spoke about beat and rhythm. Sometimes, we can get out of sync and we need to reset. We need to tune again into our own beat (and not somebody else’s) and reconnect with ourselves.

What enables you to reset? Is there enough of it in your life? If not, what can you do to make a change?