Explore the challenges of staying focused in a distracting world, learn how attention spans have shortened over time, and discover techniques for improving attention and productivity.
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Quick takeaways
Attention spans have diminished due to factors like devices and content consumption patterns.
Gaining agency over attention through intentional actions and prioritizing rest can enhance focus and productivity.
Deep dives
The Decline of Attention Span
Attention spans have diminished over the years, with the average attention span on a screen being 47 seconds. This decline is attributed to various factors, including devices and personality traits like neuroticism. The ways we consume content, such as shorter shot lengths and commercials, have also contributed to shorter attention spans.
Types of Attention and Multitasking
Attention is not a binary state but can be categorized into different types. These types include focused attention, rote attention, boredom, and frustration. Multitasking, which requires rapid attention shifting, leads to higher stress, more errors, and longer completion times.
Strategies for Improving Attention
To enhance attention, it is crucial to gain agency over our attention and become intentional in our actions. Techniques such as writing down unfinished tasks, understanding personal rhythms of attentiveness, practicing forethought, and scheduling tasks based on peak focus times can all contribute to a more attentive brain. Prioritizing rest, including quality sleep and breaks, is also essential for maintaining attentional resources.
If you have trouble focusing on books, work, or even TV shows, you’re not alone. The fact is our attention spans are getting shorter. And it can feel like our ability to perform and be productive is harder. But is a shorter attention span actually impacting our brain function and overall health? Does it really help to block distractions like social media? In our first episode of an all new season, Sanjay speaks to Gloria Mark, a professor of informatics at the University of California, Irvine, and author of “Attention Span: A Groundbreaking Way to Restore Balance, Happiness and Productivity.” She’ll tell us what’s actually going on in the brain when we’re attentive and why we’re less focused than we used to be. Professor Mark will also share tips for sharpening our attention spans that go beyond “just put down your phone.”
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