📵 Why Has Distraction Increased?
It used to be easier to focus on a task. We could get lost for hours reading a book or watch a movie without paying attention to our phones. Now, before even finishing a page, our hand goes to the phone. Even if no notification comes, we feel the urge to look at the screen. Why?
⚡ Everything Is Too Fast
Notifications, messages, social media, videos... Our brain constantly expects something new. This weakens our long-term focus. Our mind is always elsewhere. This not only reduces our productivity but also wears us out faster.
📱 What Has Changed?
Technology has certainly brought many conveniences to our lives. However, especially smartphones and social media have started to break our attention into small fragments.
According to research, people's average attention span is decreasing. In the 2000s, it was around 12 seconds, but nowadays it is said to have dropped to 8 seconds.
🧠 A Brain Always on Alert
When we get a notification on our phone, our brain releases dopamine signaling “there is something new.” This makes us feel good. As a result, constantly checking screens becomes a habit. The more we look, the more addicted we become.
This situation affects not only adults but also children. Children exposed to technology at an early age may have trouble focusing on games or lessons.
🛠️ So, What Can We Do?
- Turn off notifications: Constant alerts distract attention. Using silent mode or setting “do not disturb” periods can be effective.
- Keep the phone away: Keeping the phone out of reach while working or busy with a task improves focus.
- Take digital breaks: Staying away from technology at certain times refreshes the mind.
- Focus on one task: Multitasking lowers productivity. Working with a “single-task” approach is more efficient.
Technology makes our lives easier, yes. But managing our attention is up to us. We don’t have to open every notification or consume every piece of content instantly.
Sometimes slowing down, becoming quiet, and focusing might be exactly what we need the most.