
This weekend the New York Times published an article about how multi-tasking is changing the way we think, for the worse. Despite feeling more productive, research shows that this may lead to more trouble focusing in general.
While many people say multitasking makes them more productive, research shows otherwise. Heavy multitaskers actually have more trouble focusing and shutting out irrelevant information, scientists say, and they experience more stress.And scientists are discovering that even after the multitasking ends, fractured thinking and lack of focus persist. In other words, this is also your brain offcomputers.
"The technology is rewiring our brains," said Nora Volkow, director of the National Institute of Drug Abuse and one of the world's leading brain scientists. She and other researchers compare the lure of digital stimulation less to that of drugs and alcohol than to food and sex, which are essential but counterproductive in excess.
If you're reading this right now, you're most likely multitasking, and a great candidate for the focus test that accompanies their article. Find out how good you are at ignoring distraction and juggling tasks.
I did ok, but I can't help but feel like my score will deteriorate over time. Stack processing all the way!
Comments
I did terribly on this test. I blame Core77, which is similar to food and sex.
I had a perfect score and I'm on the computer all the time...