Distractions were crucial for the survival of our species, helping us react quickly to potential dangers. However, in today’s world, constant notifications hinder our ability to maintain prolonged concentration. In this article our expert emphasizes Cal Newport’s concept of a “deep life” about the importance of focusing on tasks with minimal distractions, whether it’s work or personal activities.

Our working memory, powered by the prefrontal cortex, is essential for planning, organizing, and reasoning. Despite this capability, we often fall short of our goals due to interruptions like notifications. The author shares a personal experiment of limiting WhatsApp usage to reduce stress and improve presence with their daughters, and highlights the importance of managing distractions to enhance productivity and presence.

On this new post our expert explores the concept of attention from a multidisciplinary perspective, pondering its definition, measurement, and significance. It suggests that attention is akin to love, both for oneself and for others. Attention, when fully engaged, enhances experiences and facilitates deeper understanding.

The article draws parallels between attention and acts of caring, such as listening to loved ones. It argues that true attention is essential for experiencing and expressing love. Ultimately, it proposes that exploring attention is synonymous with exploring the capacity for human love, both self-love and love for others.

This article explores the unique types of attention parents develop, particularly those dedicating substantial time to their children. Identifying two distinct attention modes—focused and rote—the author reflects on the challenges and engagement levels associated with each. Drawing from personal experiences, the author discusses the pursuit of achieving a state of “flow” with one’s children, akin to the immersive state described by psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi.

The narrative also touches on concerns about diminishing self-regulation in a screen-dominated world, referencing a study’s findings on the impact of screens on children’s self-control.