A Sound Solution: A Simple Way to Keep Distractions at Bay
I am easily distracted.
I think we all are. Some profess to just getting on with it, but I think, on some level we all get distracted by something.
Whether it’s the rain pouring down, the sound of the traffic outside the windows, kids playing or music blasting out, there is always a distraction that prevents us from really focusing.
Unless you’re in a soundproof room, I don’t believe anyone who says they are not easily distracted.
Working from home makes this even harder. We have other things happening in our own environment.
The washing machine, the constant arrival of deliveries, the lawnmower in next doors garden. The dog needing to be let out into the garden.
One distraction can often lead to another!
I have usually been in the habit of listening to music, which helps, but has one downside. I end up singing along, or tapping my feet and before I know it, concentration has gone!
So, what do I do? How do I manage to stay focused?
White Noise
Or more specifically, in this case, Dark Noise.
I read about it recently and just had to give it a go.
I’ve heard (forgive the pun) that a constant background sound can help with concentration.
The sound of static can increase the minds ability to filter out anything else.
What is White Noise? White noise is a type of uniform sound signal that contains all audible frequencies in equal proportions. It’s been found to help improve concentration and enhance cognitive performance in some individuals.
This is because it can reduce distractions by masking other noises in the environment, such as speech or traffic.
Additionally, white noise can help induce a state of relaxation and reduce stress, which may further improve focus and attention. Research has also shown that it can enhance memory recall and promote better sleep quality, which can indirectly contribute to better cognitive functioning during the day.
Dark Noise is an app on iOS and Mac, and it does this, but by using loops of everyday sounds.
- A coffee shop.
- Thunder and rain.
- A Stream or fountain.
- A train, car or airplane.
- The sound of a train station.
- A hairdryer, lawnmower,
- air conditioning unit or vacuum cleaner.
Upgrade to the Pro version and you can create your own mixes.
Dark Noise The official site of the Dark Noise app for iPhone, iPad, and Mac. darknoise.app
That’s what I did. It’s only £20 for the year, a small price to pay for piece of mind.
I created my own coffee shop, with some background air conditioning. It’s subtle but it works.
The sound is “just there”.
I’m not singing along or tapping my feet!
My head is on the work at hand and after a while I don’t notice the sound effects.
I’m sure, for some people, some of the included sounds will also actually aid getting to sleep.
The sound of crickets chirping, or a river, campfire, fireplace or cats purring are all conducive to getting sleepy.
Do you have a fool proof way to concentrate and not be distracted?