Is your brain hurting yet?

If you honestly think about it, 'multi-tasking' has almost become our second nature. From iPad browsing while watching TV, to music/face book during homework, to checking email/texting while driving, are a few things that come to mind and these smart phones have taken away the 'smartness' aspect in all of us. We are essentially becoming restless individuals, with attention spans decreasing by the day. 

Here is an interesting exercise that I just started practicing and is quite amazing to see how much of a struggle it is -

While driving:
Can I sit idle in a car for 2 minutes without touching my iPhone or listening to radio/music? Especially, when I hit traffic or at a red light.

For you kids - Don't practice driving, but try this fun exercise while you are in the car with your parents. You can also subtly notice the driver's activity. So, what can else can you do while not doing anything else? Observe your thoughts, this will help improve your focus and sharpen your brain.

Let's try this for a week and share the experiences in our next session.

On this note, I wanted to share a very informative research article from Forbes Magazine. Please read through and post your thoughts. Remember no 'multi-tasking' while reading this article.

Here are some excerpts -
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How Multitasking Hurts Your Brain (and Your Effectiveness at Work)

In a world of multitasking and constant distractions — from the ping of texts and emails to everyone having to wear more hats at work than they used to —  time management is one of the biggest challenges. We might feel like we’re doing more — and, in a way, we are — but we’re actually getting less done in the process. So, is it possible in this day and age to streamline your work style, be more productive and get back some time in your day to focus on big picture stuff, strategy and brainstorming, all of which will make you more effective at your job?

Why is multitasking ineffectual?
It has been scientifically demonstrated that the brain cannot effectively or efficiently switch between tasks, so you lose time. It takes four times longer to recognize new things so you’re not saving time; multitasking actually costs time. You also lose time because you often make mistakes.

Why is it so important to minimize interruptions and distractions in today’s world?
It’s important to use all parts of your brain instead of only one. That will help reduce mistakes and increase the satisfaction of engagement. The human being desires a sense of control and fulfillment and I’m seeing a swing. People of all ages are reaching a tipping point and need a ”screen break.” There’s comfort in the fact that the human spirit is saying “this is simply too much.”

What is the expert advise to people that are “addicted” to email and social media? How to break the habit of always checking their mobile devices?
All of these distractions are mindless, so you might want to give yourself a little mantra or phrase that gets them to refocus or resist distractions. 

Often, people try to change their habits, and they can’t get through a day without constantly checking email, so they give up. They didn’t realize how addicted they were. People who succeed give it a few days of discomfort, like a drug withdrawal, and then they can get through it. Sometimes people stay on track until a crisis and then they forget to go back. Overall, if you can make sure to give yourself time away from your “screens,” you will be more productive and fulfilled.

Complete article on Forbes