I doubt that anyone can disagree that our attention span has diminished in recent times.
Recent research shows the average attention span for tasks requiring sustained focused is estimated to be between 8:00 to 12:00 seconds!
This poses a significant risk to safety in those environments where attention for long periods is imperative – pilots, construction, first responders, forestry, farming, etc.
Our attention span can be influenced by age, environment, and the type of task we are undertaking.
Plus, the increasing use of digital devices and the constant bombardment of information results in difficulty in maintaining prolonged focus.
In our busy world, several factors occur:
➡️ Digital overload – the continuous inflow of information from our devices, social media and the internet can overwhelm our brains thus making it harder to focus on a single task for long periods.
➡️ Multitasking – constantly switching between tasks can reduce our ability to concentrate on one thing at a time which leads to a fragmented attention span.
➡️ Instant gratification – the immediate rewards we get from digital media, such as scrolling, likes and notifications, can condition our brains to seek quick short-term rewards rather than long-term focus.
➡️ Neuroplasticity – our brains are highly adaptable, and the way we use them changes their structure and function. Constant exposure to fast-paced, fragmented information trains our brains to process information in shorter bursts.
➡️ Stress and fatigue - high levels of stress and fatigue can impair cognitive functions, including attention and focus.
How can we improve our attention span? Here are some strategies to help you enhance our focus:
👉 Take regular breaks – working for 25 minutes and then taking a 5-minute break.
👉 Minimise distractions – create a workspace that is free from distractions, and turn off notifications from social media.
👉 Stay organised – keep a list of tasks and prioritise them to reduce the mental clutter that can lead to a wandering mind.
👉 Practice single-tasking – focus on one task at a time instead of multitasking and get rewarded with dopamine at the completion; slow is smooth, smooth is fast!
👉 Set clear goals: Having clear goals can provide direction and motivation making it easier to stay focused.
Doing the above will increase our attention span, leading us to increased productivity, less risk, reduced stress and a much happier you!
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Where Has Our Attention Span Gone?