Imagine how much more productive you would be if you could have total concentration whenever you wished. The good news is that you can learn how to concentrate better. In fact, you can do so right now.

When you start working on something, concentration is automatic, at least until you are distracted, usually by your own thoughts. That may be every few seconds for some of us, but what if you had a method of removing the distractions, of controlling your wandering mind? When there is nothing interfering, you have easy and complete concentration.

Here is a powerful method for clearing your mind. Start by paying attention to what is going on in your head. Is there a phone call you need to make, that has been quietly bothering you all day, just below consciousness? Perhaps you are worried about an upcoming meeting. Tune in to your mind. Even after one day of doing this, it will become easier.

As you become aware of these stressors, large and small, you will do something with them to let them go for the moment. For example, make that phone call, or make a note in your appointment book, and your mind will usually let go of the concern for now. Just bringing a problem to full consciousness and telling yourself something like, "There is nothing I can do about this until Friday," will often stop the unconscious worrying.

After doing these brain exercises a few times, you'll find it becomes easier to recognise what is just below the surface, irritating you and sapping your brain power and concentration. Do what works for you to set these mind irritations aside, and you will think more clearly.

Here's a simple technique. Just honestly answer the above question. Often it's difficult to concentrate because you're bored. The cure for this is to stop and consider why it is important (if it is). See the benefits clearly, and it will be easier to focus your mind. So why do you want to concentrate?

Stephen King happily writes with loud music on, so what distracts each of us, or doesn't, is obviously personal and somewhat unique. Whatever it is that takes your mind away from the task at hand, do something about it. Turn off the television, feed your empty stomach, or turn your desk away from the window.

Take care of the external and the internal distractions, and you'll be able to focus your attention and brain power like a spotlight. That's worth a little effort, isn't it?