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A New Way of Being

Why Multitasking Is Ruining Your Brain (And How to Fix It) – With Johann Hari

Dec 13, 2024
Johann Hari, author of 'Stolen Focus,' dives into the cognitive costs of multitasking and distractions. He reveals that constantly switching tasks can lower your IQ more than smoking weed. Hari discusses the 'switch cost effect,' highlighting strategies like pre-commitment to enhance focus. The conversation also explores the concept of flow, a peak performance state often disrupted by modern distractions. With practical tips to regain concentration, listeners can learn to navigate an increasingly distracting world.
10:49

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Multitasking detrimentally impacts cognitive performance, causing a 'switch cost effect' that lowers productivity and creativity significantly.
  • Emphasizing the present moment and pre-commitment strategies can help individuals rediscover flow and enhance their overall well-being.

Deep dives

Embracing the Present Moment

The concept of living in the present, rather than fixating on future aspirations, is crucial for well-being. Focusing solely on future achievements can lead to feelings of overwhelm, burnout, and a perpetual sense of lack, preventing individuals from appreciating the current moment. This approach promotes a mindset that embraces the here and now, enabling people to experience flow, peace, and a sense of awe in their daily lives. By recognizing that true fulfillment exists only in the present, individuals can alleviate the pressures of striving for an elusive future state and cultivate a more enjoyable existence.

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