7 Speed Puzzling Competition Tips to Help Focus

Need a few Speed puzzling competition tips to help your focus? Participating in a speed puzzling competition requires not only quick thinking but also focus and concentration. Unless you have super skills, it’s impossible to walk into a speed puzzle competition and not be distracted. There is so much going on!

speed puzzling competition tips

Whether you are a first time participant of a speed puzzling competition or an advanced player, without focus and concentration you won’t win. If the excitement and enthusiasm doesn’t wrap you up, the noise and chatter might catch you by surprise. That’s why I’ve always (since the beginning) found ways to focus when I practice at home and even before my speed puzzling competition near me.

Friendly Speed Puzzling Competition Includes Finding Your Groove

When I go to a speed puzzling competition I’m looking to focus on the task ahead of me. Frankly, that sounds defined, but I can be easily distracted. Which is why I think moms have an advantage when it comes to speed puzzling. They can multi-task and still get things done. Speed puzzling competitions are noisy and there is yelling. Sometimes I find that very distracting. Plus everyone is excited for the opportunity so you could probably cut that emotion with a knife when you get into the puzzle room.

I found all of these distractions intimidating and overwhelming. So finding my groove was something I had to do. Obviously, with all the elements around you during the puzzle competition, you need to figure out a way to control those things that you can. Which is why I cut my noise with a pair of earphones (definitely recommend this) and I didn’t socialize with anyone until after the competition. It allowed me to focus, concentrate and be a better player.

Speed Puzzling Competition Tips to Make Your Game the Best

Here are seven tips to help you stay focused during a fast puzzle competition:

1. Practice Regularly

Like any skill, puzzling improves with practice. Set aside time each day to work on puzzles of varying difficulty levels. This will help you develop your problem-solving skills and increase your focus over time. Then when you get to the competition, stop and consider all the time you took to be ready for this moment. It’s a self-confidence builder!

2. Set Goals

Before each session at the puzzle competition, set specific goals for yourself. These could be based on the number of puzzles you want to complete or the time you want to achieve for each puzzle. Having clear objectives can help maintain your focus and motivation.

3. Eliminate Distractions

Find a quiet and comfortable place to practice where you can minimize distractions. Turn off your phone or put it on silent mode, and let others know not to disturb you during your puzzling sessions. Put on your headphones, listen to music that inspires you and get started on your puzzle when the time is ready.

4. Use Time Management Techniques

Break your practice sessions into smaller, manageable chunks of time, with short breaks in between. Techniques like the Pomodoro Technique, where you work for 25 minutes and then take a 5-minute break, can help improve your focus and productivity.

5. Stay Hydrated and Energized

Make sure to drink plenty of water and eat nutritious snacks to keep your energy levels up during practice sessions and the competition itself. Dehydration and hunger can negatively impact your concentration and focus.

6. Practice Mindfulness

Incorporate mindfulness techniques into your practice routine to improve your ability to focus. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or visualization can help calm your mind and enhance your concentration.

7. Stay Positive and Stay Calm

Maintain a positive attitude and stay calm, especially when faced with challenging puzzles or setbacks. Stress and frustration can hinder your ability to focus, so practice techniques like positive self-talk or visualization to stay confident and composed.

Remind Yourself Speed Puzzling is fun

Sometimes we forget why we do certain things. When you feel your nerves build up, remember that you are there to have fun. That is the biggest reason of all. And if you happen to beat your best time, well, that’s great too!

By implementing these tips into your practice routine and competition strategy, you can improve your focus and increase your chances of success in a speed puzzling competition.