We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Gregory Caremans - Brain Academy

Regardless if you are a very focused or distracted person, this course will help you reach the next level.

Read more

Regardless if you are a very focused or distracted person, this course will help you reach the next level.

We all have this inherent capacity to focus ... but at the same time, attention is a limited resource. Not only should we be aware of this, but treat it as such: something most valuable.

In this course we will be looking at our capacity to Focus from a whole variety of angles. From brain systems and neurochemicals, over the impact of survival instincts and emotions, to the different types of distractions we're facing. There will be a whole pallet of advice and insights, as well as tips, tricks and strategies presented to help you gain substantial improvement in your capacity to focus.

And we're not even speaking about the many experiments, and mind-twisting tests included in this course, which you will be subject to. We won't be talking about focus. You will be experimenting it for yourself.

Bonus Material

You're in for a treat. We've updated this already fantastic course, and added a whole section about the flow state. Thoroughly researched. Top notch.

And Flow. Aahh Flow... a personal favourite. This altered state of consciousness let's us tap into the subconscious resources our brain has at its disposal ... and yet... it seems so hard to get there... 

Well not anymore. We will be looking at the Flow state from the original flow state theory from Csickzentmichalyi back in the 70ies, to the latest neuroscience available. We will be looking at flow from different perspectives. What is it? How to recognize it? The difference with Focus. But most importantly, we'll share a five step process to reach this Flow state yourself.

What you'll find in the course:

This little gem, just as with all our other courses, has been thoroughly researched to bring you the best in brain insights. In this course, among others, there will be a particular emphasis on the dual brain theory (backed by D. Kahneman, Nobel Prize winner and one of world's leading psychologists), and Mihail Csickzentmihalyi, the pioneer when it comes to the Flow Theory.

The tests and experiments have been designed by leading experts in the field of psychology. So you don't have to worry about lasting damage done to your brain or mind ;)

After this course, you will be able to focus as never before. On top of the research and studies, I will be sharing my own experience, insights and strategies that have helped me significantly improve my own productivity and quality.

The course is packed with concrete tools, so you can apply this immediately in your own life: 

  • Improve your Focus - by applying a whole set of strategies

  • Find your Flow - by following a simple 5 steps process

  • Understand the mechanism driving Focus and Flow - by exploring theories and scientific studies

  • Explore why and how we loose our focus - by participating in mindbending tests and experiments

  • Create the right conditions - both internally and externally, to have your brain operate in optimal conditions and at full speed

  • And So Much More... such as multi-tasking, survival skills, network of neurons, ego depletion, dopamine, quality control, wine tasting, salsa dancing, and so on ... 

Just as the subject of this course, the content will be focused and to the point. Now regardless if you are a very focused or distracted person, this course will help you reach the next level. It's very hands-on and packed with tips and strategies that will benefit the novice as well as the more advanced. 

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Significantly improve your focus by applying a whole set of strategies
  • Understand the mechanism driving focus
  • Understand why and how we loose our focus
  • Appreciate the limits of focus
  • Recognize the different sources that lead to a loss of focus
  • Apply a simple 5 step process to reach your flow state
  • Create the right conditions, both internally and externally, to have your brain operate in optimal conditions and at full speed

Syllabus

Introduction and general overview of the course

Introduction to the course, general overview.

Test your focus with this video before continuing the course.

Read more

de-brief of the test and understanding what focus is about

Limits To Our Focus
Neither 'Yes' or 'No'

Our dual brain and its relation to focus

Our conflicts of attention and their sources

Multi-tasking, what it is, and isn't.

The reason why we can't do our own quality control

Types Of Distractions

Here we will describe the distractions coming from the outside

Here we will describe the distractions coming from the inside

How too much isn't helping to focus

How not enough isn't helping to focus

Types of Distractions
Improve Your Focus

10 strategies to increase your focus

Situational awareness is the key to true expertise

Eisenhower with a twist
BONUS: Find Your Flow
Introduction to Flow
What is Flow?
Your Flow Experience
Types of Flow
How to Flow
Conclusion to Flow
Conclusion

Summary and conclusion

Certificate of Completion
BONUS: What's next?

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Develops strategies for managing focus and attention, which are crucial skills in a fast-paced knowledge economy
Provides practical advice and insights from research in psychology and neuroscience
Applies theory to practice with a range of tools, exercises, and strategies
Taught by experts with extensive experience in related fields
Covers the latest trends and research on focus and attention
Requires active participation and self-reflection, which can be challenging for some learners

Save this course

Save Focus And Flow State: A Comprehensive Brain Guide to your list so you can find it easily later:
Save

Reviews summary

Well received course on focus and flow

Learners say this course on focus and flow is well received for its interesting material and engaging assignments. Indeed, learners enjoy the interactive nature of the course as well as the insightful readings, videos, and other materials that are provided. One downside is that the subtitles do not always provide a good translation of the lectures. Overall, students enjoyed the course.
Learners find the course material to be engaging and interesting.
"Really interesting material."
The subtitles do not always provide a good translation of the lectures.
"I am French though and the subtitles do help to understand. But the translation in the subtitles is often bad..... that's my only downside to this course."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Focus And Flow State: A Comprehensive Brain Guide with these activities:
Read "Deep Work" by Cal Newport
Explore the concept of deep work and its importance for focus and productivity, gaining practical insights to enhance your learning.
Show steps
  • Purchase or borrow the book.
  • Set aside dedicated time for reading.
  • Take notes and highlight key points.
  • Reflect on the concepts and apply them to your own learning strategies.
Practice mindfulness exercises
Incorporate mindfulness exercises into your routine to cultivate present-moment awareness and reduce distractions, enhancing your ability to focus on learning.
Browse courses on Mindfulness
Show steps
  • Find guided mindfulness exercises online or through apps.
  • Dedicate a few minutes each day to practice.
  • Observe your thoughts and sensations without judgment.
Form a study group with classmates
Collaborate with peers to discuss course material, enhance understanding, and support each other's learning.
Browse courses on Collaboration
Show steps
  • Identify a few classmates who are interested in forming a study group.
  • Set a regular meeting time and place.
  • Prepare for meetings by reviewing the material and identifying areas for discussion.
  • Actively participate in discussions and share insights.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Participate in online focus exercises
Practice focus exercises online to improve attention and concentration, which are essential for effective learning.
Browse courses on Focus
Show steps
  • Choose a reputable website or app offering focus exercises.
  • Follow the instructions and practice regularly.
  • Track your progress and adjust as needed.
Create a mind map of the course concepts
Organize and visualize the key concepts covered in the course to improve comprehension and retention.
Browse courses on Focus
Show steps
  • Review the course outline and identify the main concepts.
  • Choose a mind mapping tool or software.
  • Create a visual representation of the concepts, connecting them with branches and notes.
Develop a focus improvement plan
Create a personalized plan to address your specific focus challenges, outlining strategies and techniques to enhance your concentration and productivity.
Browse courses on Time Management
Show steps
  • Identify areas where you struggle with focus.
  • Research and explore different focus techniques and strategies.
  • Develop a plan that incorporates these techniques into your daily routine.
  • Monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed.
Attend a workshop on flow state
Explore the concept of flow state, learn techniques to achieve it, and enhance your productivity and focus during learning.
Browse courses on Flow State
Show steps
  • Research and find a reputable workshop on flow state.
  • Register and attend the workshop.
  • Actively participate and implement the techniques learned.
Contribute to open-source projects related to focus
Engage in open-source projects that explore techniques and tools for enhancing focus, contributing to the community and deepening your understanding.
Browse courses on Open Source
Show steps
  • Identify open-source projects related to focus.
  • Research and select a project to contribute to.
  • Follow the project's guidelines and contribute code or documentation.

Career center

Learners who complete Focus And Flow State: A Comprehensive Brain Guide will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Meditation Instructor
A Meditation Instructor teaches meditation techniques to help people improve their focus, reduce stress, and increase their overall well-being. It is important for Meditation Instructors to be able to focus on their work and maintain their focus for long periods of time. This course may be helpful for someone who wants to become a Meditation Instructor, as it provides strategies for improving focus, understanding the limits of focus, and optimizing one's work environment.
Neuroscientist
A Neuroscientist studies the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. They may conduct research on the structure and function of the nervous system, or they may develop new treatments for neurological disorders. It is important for Neuroscientists to be able to focus on complex research projects and maintain their focus for long periods of time. This course may be helpful for those who want to become Neuroscientists, as it provides strategies for improving focus, understanding the limits of focus, and optimizing one's work environment.
Professor
A Professor teaches college-level courses and conducts research in their field of expertise. They may publish their research in scholarly journals and present their findings at conferences. Being able to focus is vital for carrying out extensive research, preparing and delivering lectures, and grading students' work. A Professor may find this course helpful as it provides strategies for improving focus, understanding the limits of focus, and recognizing different sources of distraction.
Programmer
A Programmer writes and tests code that is used to create software applications. They must be able to focus on complex code and maintain their focus for long periods of time. This course may be helpful for someone who wants to become a Programmer, as it provides strategies for improving focus, understanding the limits of focus, and optimizing one's work environment.
Consultant
A Consultant provides advice and expertise to businesses and organizations. They may work on a variety of projects, such as developing marketing plans, improving operational efficiency, or solving financial problems. It is important for Consultants to be able to focus on their work and maintain their focus for long periods of time. This course may be helpful for someone who wants to become a Consultant, as it provides strategies for improving focus, understanding the limits of focus, and optimizing one's work environment.
Therapist
A Therapist helps people with mental, emotional, and behavioral issues. They may provide counseling, psychotherapy, or other forms of treatment. It is important for Therapists to be able to focus on their clients and maintain their focus for long periods of time. This course may be helpful for someone who wants to become a Therapist, as it provides strategies for improving focus, understanding the limits of focus, and optimizing one's work environment.
Coach
A Coach helps people achieve their goals by providing guidance and support. They may work with individuals or teams in a variety of settings, such as sports, business, or personal development. It is important for Coaches to be able to focus on their clients and maintain their focus for long periods of time. This course may be helpful for someone who wants to become a Coach, as it provides strategies for improving focus, understanding the limits of focus, and optimizing one's work environment.
Journalist
A Journalist gathers, analyzes, and reports on news and current events. They must be able to focus on their work and maintain their focus for long periods of time. This course may be helpful for someone who wants to become a Journalist, as it provides strategies for improving focus, understanding the limits of focus, and optimizing one's work environment.
Designer
A Designer creates visual concepts and products, such as websites, logos, and advertisements. They must be able to focus on their work and maintain their focus for long periods of time. This course may be helpful for someone who wants to become a Designer, as it provides strategies for improving focus, understanding the limits of focus, and optimizing one's work environment.
Data Analyst
A Data Analyst collects, analyzes, and interprets data to help businesses make better decisions. They may use statistical software to analyze data and identify trends. It is important for Data Analysts to be able to focus on complex data sets and maintain their focus for long periods of time. This course may be helpful for someone who wants to become a Data Analyst, as it provides strategies for improving focus, understanding the limits of focus, and optimizing one's work environment.
Teacher
A Teacher creates lesson plans, teaches classes, and assesses student learning. To succeed in this role, it is important to be able to focus on teaching material and maintain composure in front of a group of students. This course may be helpful for someone who wants to become a Teacher, as it provides strategies for improving focus, recognizing distractions, and creating an optimal learning environment.
Writer
A Writer plans, writes, edits, and revises content for various mediums. This can include articles, blog posts, website content, marketing materials, and more. They must be able to focus in order to effectively research and compose coherent pieces of writing. This course may be helpful by teaching strategies to improve focus, recognize distractions, and understand the limits of focus.
Attorney
An Attorney provides legal advice to clients, represents clients in court, and prepares legal documents. Attorneys must be able to focus on complex legal issues and maintain their focus throughout lengthy trials. This course may be helpful for those seeking a career in law, as it provides strategies for recognizing distractions, understanding the limits of focus, and finding flow.
Psychiatrist
A Psychiatrist diagnoses and treats mental illness through a combination of psychotherapy and medication. It is vital for Psychiatrists to be able to focus while listening to patients and assessing their symptoms. This course may be helpful for those who want to become Psychiatrists, as it provides strategies for improving focus, recognizing distractions, and understanding the limits of focus.
Psychologist
A Psychologist studies the human mind and behavior. Psychologists diagnose and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. In this line of work, it is critical to be able to focus. Therapists must maintain focus while listening to clients. They also need to be able to find their flow state in order to provide effective therapy. This course may be useful for those who want to become Psychologists as it provides strategies for improving focus and reaching a flow state.

Reading list

We've selected 16 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Focus And Flow State: A Comprehensive Brain Guide.
Save
As the seminal work on the concept of flow, this book provides the theoretical foundation for the course's exploration of flow states.
Save
Examines the science of expertise, providing principles and practices for developing exceptional skills and achieving flow states.
Emphasizes the role of focus in achieving excellence, providing practical tools and techniques for enhancing attention and performance.
Addresses the challenges of distraction in the digital age, offering strategies for enhancing focus in an environment filled with interruptions.
Explores the strengths and challenges of introversion, offering insights into how introverts can optimize their focus and flow.
Explores the relationship between the body, emotions, and consciousness, which can provide additional insights into the course's exploration of focus and flow states.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the brain's functions, offering a valuable background for understanding the neural mechanisms of focus and flow.
Provides a practical approach to enhancing happiness and well-being, offering valuable insights into the relationship between focus, flow, and overall life satisfaction.
Covers topics on consciousness and the mind that complement the course's discussions on focus and flow.
Can be a useful reference for some of the philosophical concepts on thinking and being discussed in the course.

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Similar courses

Here are nine courses similar to Focus And Flow State: A Comprehensive Brain Guide.
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2024 OpenCourser