Reading a book is fun. Sometimes, it can be boring, and you might have a hard time focusing. It is human nature to feel frustrated. But you do not need to feel that way as you can finish the book thru listening.
Most novels, autobiographies, and other today’s materials are available with an audiobook version, and you can give it a try. Unlike reading, it is more convenient as you can absorb new information even when your eyes are closed while lying in bed.
What if you still cannot concentrate while listening to an audiobook? That could be terrible. You are not alone, though, as there are billions of people who experience the same thing. Now, how to improve your focus?
Preparing your brain before that specific task could be useful. A simple breathing or meditating exercise for a few minutes is a bright idea.
Tips to Help You Stay Focused With Your Audiobook
Aside from meditation, what else can help you concentrate while listening to an audiobook? Here are the other practical and straightforward tips you can follow:
A Minimum of 30 Minutes is Recommended
A recent study revealed that the average human attention span lasts for only eight seconds. So, it is not surprising that you always lose your concentration while performing a task.
There are always interruptions, and you cannot continue listening to an audiobook without getting distracted. A simple phone call or chat, for instance, can divide your attention, and it is difficult to refocus. A study from the University of California found that it takes more than 23 minutes to concentrate again, which can affect your brainpower.
Now, how long should you listen to an audiobook? One hour would not be feasible. A minimum of 30 minutes is advisable. After that, you can take a break, of course. Remember that our minds cannot process massive information within a short time. We are human, after all.
Take Down Notes
Did you try meditating before listening to an audiobook? What happens? Did your concentration improve? If it did not work, that’s all right. Note-taking might be helpful. It can keep you awake, allow you to pay attention, and help you focus.
That’s not all. Taking down notes can promote holistic learning and retention. Current research found that summarizing what you hear is an excellent way to interpret and remember the information within a long time.
How do you jot down notes? If you are uncomfortable using paper and pen, you can type every necessary detail on your phone, laptop, or tablet.
Experts also say that people are more likely to forget approximately 50% of the information they listen to within an hour. After 24 hours, it would be 70%.
But a note will let you remember, giving you an advantage while working or studying.
Invest in a Quality Set of Earphones
It is awful to listen to an audiobook using an earphone with low audio quality as you will concentrate on the distorted sound instead.
It is time to buy a new pair of earbuds or headphones. But it is hard to narrow down the market because of several brands to pick from.
It would be helpful to take advantage of earphones with a noise-cancellation feature. You cannot hear whenever your siblings or colleagues talk to each other.
Apart from that, look for earbuds available with a good design. Who does not want to use poorly styled earphones? Everyone would love to have something impressive.
But before you stick to a specific brand, identify what you can afford. Are you on a budget or willing to spend more? Whatever your case may be, earphones come in various pricing options.
Find a Quiet Room
Everyone is different. While some can focus in a noisy room, others cannot. Now, what category do you belong to?
If you get distracted and uncomfortable in a high-traffic room, it is wise to find a quiet space. Lying in your bed while studying your audiobook is perfect. But it becomes boring after some time. Your patio will also be fun. The garden and the lawn can have a calming effect that will relax your mind.
The living room will also be your best bet. But prepare it before anything else. Turn off the TV and radio. Then, inform the people living in the house that you are getting ready for an exam. They will understand you, for sure.
Reread Something In Your Bookshelf
It is a common practice for some to force themselves to concentrate while analyzing their audiobook. It’s good. But it has a different effect on others, which might lead to anxiety.
When we are anxious, we are more likely to misinterpret what we listen to. So, it won’t guarantee any learning or retention.
Instead of exerting too much effort to concentrate, it is advisable to reread something on your bookshelf to take away your frustration and pressure while enabling you to practice your concentration skills.
If nothing happens, it is always best to take a break to relax your mind. You can eat your favorite snack while sitting in front of your mirror. You can also catch up with your family.
Change the Narrative Speed of Your Audiobook According to Your Specific Requirements
Have you ever experienced watching a video tutorial with a fast speaker? How’s it? Admit it or not, you did not fully understand the content.
Studying your audiobook is the same thing. If you listen to the presenter at high speed, you might not absorb the information well not unless you are a fast listener.
But if you have suffered from concentration problems lately, you can modify the narrative speed of the material according to your needs, and there is nothing to be ashamed of.
What matters is that you comprehend what you listen to, even if it takes a few days or weeks for you to finish the audiobook.
Enjoy expanding your horizon, learn other’s cultures, and acquire new knowledge thru listening or reading books!
