Our perception constantly strives to find order in random patterns. Sometimes this may lead us to results which are not what we expect. For example, if you look at your television screen when transmission has ended, your senses and your mind may lead you to the conclusion that the random flickering of the spots look like a swarm of bees.

There are disturbances everywhere and unless you are living in a cave on the top of a mountain, disturbances are quite unavoidable. Sources of disturbances in our everyday lives include the telephone, passing traffic, a barking dog or kids playing nearby. Here are some tips on how to cope.

Most of us have encountered this scenario before. You are about to solve a difficult problem when the telephone rings. You feel flustered but somehow compelled to answer the phone. After you put the phone down, you find that you can't remember your solution. There are ways to shield yourself from being disturbed. If possible, in the office you can let your colleagues know that at certain times you do not want to be disturbed. If necessary, put a sign on your door. If that does not work, move your workstation.

When it comes to concentration however, we are often to be blamed. Not having enough enthusiasm, and difficulties with concentration can be an indication that our work patterns or habits need correction. You need to take short breaks while you work, and reward yourself when the job is done. Or if the task at hand will take you several hours, reward yourself when you reach a certain milestone. For example, after writing certain number of pages of a document or presentation. Maybe you need sleep, make sure you get enough sleep and talk to a spouse about your need for sleep so that he or she can make the necessary adjustments. Maybe you are carrying too many burdens on your shoulders. In that case, you need to take up a sport or some relaxing activity or hobby.

Our senses can be overloaded in some situations. For example in a lively party, where the music is loud and there are many people talking or even shouting to be heard. How do you react when all of a sudden, in the middle of all that noise, laughter, voices, you hear your name? Automatically, you try to determine who is calling or mentioning your name. Psychologists are not exactly clear why we can pick out essential bits of information in the midst of the deafening noise and chaos of a party. Yet, it is the harnessing of this interesting fact about how the subconscious can filter out background noise to zero in on what is vital that is the core of brain training and memory enhancement.

Our minds seem to possess a variety of filters for blocking out irrelevant information, while at the same time allowing certain sounds or words to enter our consciousness. Anyone who is a parent knows how useful these filters can be. The cry of a baby - even if in another part of the house will alert the mother or father of it's distress. Training our mind to focus on the task at hand or prioritising what is important will ensure less stress and freeing up more time for a more productive you.

When you have enough sleep and exercise, you will be in a better mental and physical shape to cope. Your concentration, your memory and your capacity for learning will increase.