How To Concentrate Better

Kerala to focus more on its newer industries

Thiruvananthapuram, June 14 (IANS) Kerala will promote newer industries like IT, bio- technology and tourism, new state Industry Minister P.K. Kunhalikutty said Tuesday.

‘Given the scheme of things that prevails here, manufacturing sector may not be that successful because of various factors and hence it would be better if we concentrate on newer areas. One thing is very clear that we will have clear-cut policies for all what we will do and there will be no policy on a case by case basis,’ said Kunhalikutty, addressing the media here for the first time after becoming Industries Minister for the third time.

The state has slipped badly from one of the top positions in the country in 2006 to the 16th position in 2009 according to a recent study of the World Bank, he said.

‘Lots of opportunities were lost especially in the IT sector because of the inordinate delay in the proposed Smart City IT Project at Kochi by the previous Left government. We are nowhere in the list of IT development with a meagre turnover as compared to other states,’ he said.

Kunhalikutty confirmed that he would be meeting with Smart City Dubai officials on June 23, who are to build the Rs.1,500 crore Smart City Kochi , a planned IT township in Kochi.

As one of the first steps in this regard, he has asked for a complete review of all the state public sector enterprises.

‘The review would be done very fast and during the review one aspect that would be looked into is the backdoor appointments made during the fag end of the previous Left government in these PSUs,’ he said.

Kerala may also undertake another Global Investors Meet as a similar meet was held by the previous Congress-led United Democratic Front (2001-06), he added.

‘This is a policy decision and hence I alone can’t make an announcement to this effect and very soon one can hear about what we intend to do,’ said Kunhalikutty, while pointing out that the Governor’s address is expected to take place later this month.

Two Things That Will Help You Focus And Concentrate Better At Work ...

Image: Michelle Meiklejohn / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Familiar?

Do you find yourself losing concentration and focus, and making mistakes?

If you’re a writer like me, I bet you’ve had days like the one described above.

There may be a simple solution. Two things you can easily change, that will make a huge difference to you.

1/ Watch your hydration

2/ Control your blood sugar level

I’ve discovered this by accident – I’m triathlon training at the moment, and I’m having to watch both of those carefully. Since I started training, my concentration and ability to focus on a task has improved hugely, and I’d put that down to fitness. But on reflection, I’m almost certain it’s because I’m eating well, at regular intervals, and I’m drinking loads of water.

Hydration

If you’re thirsty, it’s often too late – you could already be dehydrated. Even mild dehydration can result in irritability, tiredness, headaches and an inability to concentrate. Less than 1% bodyweight dehydration begins to affect motor co-ordination. Mistyping? Maybe that’s why?

The solution is so simple – keep drinking water! Have a large glass of water on your desk and just keep sipping.  I currently need 4 liters of water per day to match my weight and exercise level.  You can calculate what you need here: Water Calculator

Food

Low blood sugar directly affects the brain, as it needs glucose to function. Symptoms are very similar to dehydration. Gorging on sweet food at irregular intervals exacerbates the problem, by causing a short term spike then a corresponding deep fall. Decision making is affected first, and then rationality starts to go out of the window. Ever got ridiculously angry about something that’s not really that important? I know I have.

Again, the solution is obvious. Eat well, eat regularly, and plan your meals ahead of time – don’t wait until you’re so hungry you just need something quickly – that’s exactly when you crave a sugar fix or end up overdosing on carbs.

You know it makes sense.