3 ways to be in a distraction-free zone
As a composer, I feel that I am constantly working double. I have to shut up the noises outside, and inside, my head and then get in the zone to listen to the sounds in my head that I want to transfer to the page. Wow.
No wonder I have days where I feel exhausted after writing just a few notes. I had to do something. I had to try something new that helped me to be in a “composer zone.”
Be in a mental state that relates to the task
It is important to be in a state of mind that is cheering for you and your goal. Imagine how difficult would it be to concentrate if your mind is all over the place. I would say very difficult.
It might not be our fault as we were born in the multitasking era. We are cooking a cake while thinking about fixing our car and the bills that we might not be able to pay. When we get back to the main task, cooking the cake, is already ruined.
If you and your mind are in sync, meaning focus on your main task at the time, you will work like a well-oiled machine. You will have the power to go through any walls that appear in the middle of your composition session, or even during your rehearsal.
Create a distraction-free zone
Once your mind is in the same room with you, and on the same task, be sure to lock the door and not let anybody or anything get in there with you.
It might be one of the most difficult things to do because distractions are all over our computers or cell phones, which we might be using for writing music, or whatever another task you are working on. But it is not impossible. You can do it!
I have done it and I feel better after I dedicate the time for myself and for my art. I encourage you to find the time and space for yourself so you can get more things done. This distraction-free zone is important for you and your music to not let your mind wander away from you. This will work in your composition session, in your practice session, ot in rehearsal. Anywhere!
Meditate and compartmentalize
This is new to me. I can’t say it always works for me 100% of the times but it always gives me time and space to think. That is good enough for me to trust it as I learn to explore more the benefits of meditating.
I am not saying sit down and meditate for 30 minutes. I am lucky if I am able to do it for 2 minutes without wandering so much. But the breathing, relaxing, and inviting my other worries away to other rooms helps me to feel better and find the right space to work on the task that is in front of me.
To be in the present is something that I long to know how to use at my own dispense. I keep working on it on a daily basis.
Set a deadline and a timer
I am sure you were not expecting this to be the last part. However, I know that when I set a deadline and a timer for it, I gain focus instantly. Suddenly, it feels as if I need to finish to advance in my goals within the time. Has it happened to you? This technique helps me to gain clarity and be present, and I hope it helps you as well.
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