Since the early 2000s, it has been widely accepted that the average attention span has been declining. A study by Microsoft Corp in 2015 found that the average attention span had declined from 12 seconds in 2000 to 8 seconds, and predicted it would continue to decline.
There are a number of reasons behind this decline. The proliferation of digital devices and the constant stream of information they provide have made it harder for people to focus on one thing for a time. In addition, the way we consume information has changed; we are now more likely to skim-read or watch short videos than to read long articles or watch films.
Despite this, it is still possible to improve your attention span. A number of studies have shown that attention span can be increased with the right kind of training. For example, a study by the University of California, Santa Barbara found that people who underwent eight weeks of working memory training saw their attention span improve by 34%.
There are a number of benefits to having a good attention span. These include improved academic performance, better work productivity, and improved mental and physical health. Attention span is also linked to success in life; a study by the University of Minnesota found that people with higher attention spans were more likely to earn higher incomes.
So, if you're looking to improve your attention span, there are a number of things you can do. Below are four tips to help you get started.
Identify your distractions
To avoid distractions and maintain focus, you must first identify what's distracting you. What might be the cause of your unfocus? It could be anything such as phone notifications, background noises etc. Once you know what's triggering your distraction, it'll get easier to eliminate them
Set aside time for focused work
Once you know what your distractions are, you can start to set aside specific times for focused work. This could be an hour in the morning before you check your phone, or an hour in the evening after you finish your work.
Practice meditation or mindfulness
Meditation and mindfulness can help you to focus your attention on the present moment and learn to control your thoughts. There are a number of apps and websites that can help you get started with meditation.
Get enough sleep
Adequate sleep is crucial to maintain attention span. If you're finding it difficult to stay focused or motivated, this could be because you're still feeling the effects of not enough sleep. Sticking to a bedtime & wake time and getting around seven hours of sleep each night should help.
By following these tips, you can start to improve your attention span and enjoy the benefits that come with it.
As we discover all through why there is a decrease in attention span, we must not forget that your attention and interest go together. You might never turn up your focus on something which never hits your interest.
Being able to maintain focus for long periods of time might make you more creative, engaged and productive. On a side note, you deserve to pat yourself on the back for reading this article all the way through!
