The Art of Manliness cover image

The Art of Manliness

Get a Handle on Your Shrinking Attention Span

Feb 8, 2023
Dr. Gloria Mark, a world-renowned researcher on attention and author of Attention Span, dives into how our concentration has eroded in the digital age. She highlights the staggering decline in average attention span from two and a half minutes to just 47 seconds, largely due to multitasking and constant interruptions. Gloria explains personality influences on focus, revealing why neurotic individuals struggle more. She advocates for a balanced approach to attention, suggesting we embrace our natural rhythms rather than striving for hyper-focus.
50:17

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Attention spans on screens have significantly decreased over the years, with the average attention span on a screen dropping to 47 seconds, accompanied by a rise in time spent on digital devices.
  • Personality traits such as neuroticism and impulsivity can impact attention span, while conscientious individuals can improve focus and productivity through strategic breaks and self-regulation.

Deep dives

Attention spans on screens have drastically shortened

According to research conducted by Dr. Gloria Mark, attention spans on screens have significantly decreased over the years. In 2004, the average attention span on a screen was two and a half minutes, but now it has dropped to an average of 47 seconds. This decrease in attention spans is accompanied by an increase in the amount of time people spend with digital devices, with Americans spending about 10 hours a day on screens. The constant switching of attention between different tasks and activities on screens has negative consequences, including decreased performance, increased errors, and heightened stress levels.

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