"Popcorn Brain" Could Be Killing Your Productivity

[Edition #21] [2 min read]

Ever sat down to watch a 1-2 hour movie…

Only to check your phone every 5 minutes…

Your attention span pops from once task to another.

Kind of like popcorn kernels popping in the microwave.

If so, you may have “popcorn brain”

Coined by David Levy.

He described it as “being so hooked on electronic multitasking that the slower-paced life offline holds no interest”

The 3 causes of popcorn brain are:

• Excessive screen time

• Constant notifications

• Social media (addictive short form content)

Here are 5 systems to boost your attention span & refocus…↓

👉️ Tip 1: Adjust Your Phone Settings

• Regulate your screen time

• Download app blockers for a designated period

Sometimes it can be hard to build a habit.

Instead build systems to change your environment to set yourself up for success.

👉️ Tip 2: The Pomodoro Technique

I’m sure you’ve heard me preach this method a million times 🤣 

But that’s because it actually works & requires minimal effort.

All you have to do is set a timer for 25 mins, followed by a 5 min break.

Every 2 hours take longer breaks.

Use this technique with your phone when possible

👉️ Tip 3: Have a Shutdown Routine

Try Cal Newport’s shutdown routine:

1. Last 15 mins of your workday make a to-do list.

2. Look at the next few days in your calendar

3. Close everything

4. Literally say out loud: “Shutdown Complete”

👉️ Tip 4: Have Tech Free Zones

Set boundaries!

Implement designated ‘tech free’ times & locations

Take a break & go outside without your phone.

👉️ Tip 5: Nourish Your Mind, Body, & Soul

• Regular physical exercise

• Puzzles

• Learning new skills

• Intellectually stimulating conversations

Climb Further

1. Cal Newport Shutdown Routine

2. Credit:

   1. Sanam Hafeez, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist and the founder and Clinical Director of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C. 

   2. Andrew Kahn, PsyD, is a licensed psychologist and the Associate Director of Behavior Change & Expertise for Understood.

      [Note: Not Sponsored]

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Please share this edition to help others! ♻

Till next time, take care & stay well, my friend. 😊 

-Payal