What is defined as the ability to stay focused on performance and ignore external distractions?

The ability to stay focused on performance and ignore external distractions is best defined as selective attention. Selective attention refers to the cognitive process of selectively concentrating on a particular aspect of information while ignoring other perceptible information that is also occurring. This mental skill is crucial for athletes and performers who need to maintain their focus during competitions or practice, allowing them to filter out distractions from their environment and concentrate solely on their performance.

While concentration encompasses the broader ability to maintain focus over time and can include aspects of selective attention, it does not explicitly capture the idea of ignoring distractions. Focused breathing involves techniques used to enhance relaxation or performance, while active listening is a communication skill that involves paying full attention to the speaker, which does not specifically pertain to maintaining focus during performance. Therefore, the concept of selective attention is more precise in describing the ability to maintain performance focus amidst distractions.