Shifting
What is Shifting?
Shifting is the ability to ‘change gears’ in our brains to do something different to accomplish a task. Shifting can occur in our attention, processing, and action. We can shift what we are focusing on in, how we think about what we are focusing on, or what we are doing in response to what we are thinking about.
What do Shifting challenges look like?
- Getting stuck doing something that isn't working
- Difficulty changing tasks
- Not knowing how to stop doing something, even if you have other things to do
- Perpetual lateness because you "get lost" doing something
- Ignoring alerts or alarms
- Getting lost in your phone, tablet, or other technology
- Difficulties adjusting strategies quickly
What are some strategies to help with Shifting challenges?
- Defining what stopping a task looks like in concrete terms
- Using time management to limit how often shifting needs to happen
- Creating clear beginnings and ends for tasks
- Progress monitoring
How can coaching help with Shifting challenges?
- Increased awareness and metacognition
- Identification of shifting limitations
- Development of strategies particular to your strengths
- Assessing effectiveness of strategies
- Increase accountability for desired growth and change
