Shapecharge/Getty Images Dr. Praveen Tipirneni says modern habits that seem convenient are hindering our ability to concentrate. Rather than tackling difficult tasks first during the day, we check emails and texts — easy work. He believes effective communication should be structured instead of taking things as they come. Whenever I walk into a library, something clicks in my brain. The sight of an unmistakable banker's desk lamp with a green glass shade primes me to focus and concentrate. And I'm sure that's the result of about a decade's worth of higher education. Thousands of hours in the quiet section of the library have taught my brain to associate that environment with study and concentration.