Multi-tasking is one in all the plagues of recent existence. We think it makes us extra productive, but it surely doesn’t. When we “multi-task,” we actually shift our attention rapidly from one thing to a different. These rapid shifts cause two bad things: (1) we sacrifice the quantity of focused attention we give each task, and (2) we sacrifice the quality of our attention.
According to a report within the Archives of General Psychiatry, simultaneous exposure to electronic media during teenage years (e.g. playing a pc game while watching television) appears to be related to increased depression and anxiety in young maturity. Although this is only one type of multitasking, it highlights the negative effects it may cause.
In fact, multi-tasking does the exact opposite of what the brain is designed to do — and it causes a level of brain damage. Over time, multi-tasking creates patterns of flightiness and poor concentration.
Deep, Focused Thought Is Better As a communication pathologist within the cognitive neuroscience field, I even have repeatedly seen the advantages of focused pondering and disciplined concentration. When we predict deeply, our brain responds with healthy patterns, circuits, and neurochemicals. Scientists have found that deep pondering prompts the prefrontal cortex (the a part of your brain that’s just above your eyebrows) in a positive way. It increases concentration, reduces distraction, and reduces emotional volatility.
Scientists have also found that this kind of pondering improves connections throughout nerve networks within the brain. It also increases gyrification (or more folds within the cortex of the brain). These extra folds allow the brain to process information faster, make decisions quicker, and improve memory. Studies show that the more you apply a deep thought pattern in your brain, the more you’ll improve the physical structure of your brain.
Deep, Focused Thought Is Better
As a communication pathologist within the cognitive neuroscience field, I even have repeatedly seen the advantages of focused pondering and disciplined concentration. When we predict deeply, our brain responds with healthy patterns, circuits, and neurochemicals. Scientists have found that deep pondering prompts the prefrontal cortex (the a part of your brain that’s just above your eyebrows) in a positive way. It increases concentration, reduces distraction, and reduces emotional volatility.
Scientists have also found that this kind of pondering improves connections throughout nerve networks within the brain. It also increases gyrification (or more folds within the cortex of the brain). These extra folds allow the brain to process information faster, make decisions quicker, and improve memory. Studies show that the more you apply a deep thought pattern in your brain, the more you’ll improve the physical structure of your brain.
My Research
In my research about patients with traumatic brain injuries and other people with learning and emotional disabilities, I used to be astounded on the change of their pondering and emotions after they applied a deeper thought pattern. The results were so compelling that I abandoned all traditional therapy; trained them in a latest, deepthinking- focused technique; and showed them methods to apply it to their every day lives.
The changes were almost immediate: improved focus, concentration, understanding, efficiency, and overall effectiveness in producing quality work. There were even positive emotional changes, especially in self-motivation and self-esteem. These positive results multiplied as patients continued to use these healthier pondering patterns.
Give This a Try
The evidence clearly indicates that it’s time to stop the multi-tasking madness. But is it really possible in today’s fast-paced world? To stop multi-tasking, you have to commit to taking just a few key steps:
1.Become fully aware of all of your thoughts, and halt rogue pondering. If you might be specializing in a task, and you discover your mind wandering to something else (or worse, into the negativity of “This is just too hard!”), awareness is step one in returning to focus. Make an intentional alternative to dam unrelated or unhelpful thoughts, and return to the duty at hand.
2.Strengthen your ability to focus by practicing reflection. Spend time every day intentionally specializing in one thing, like a Bible passage (without wondering what you’ll make for dinner). Practice your ability to dam internal and external distractions.
3.Stop attempting to do multiple thing without delay. If you might be having a conversation with a friend, resist the urge to read every text message you receive. Instead of watching TV and answering emails, select one activity or the opposite to avoid switching your attention forwards and backwards.
Determination Is Key
One of my patients was left with extreme brain damage after being in a automotive accident when she was a junior in highschool. Doctors told her parents that she would remain a “vegetable.” Fortunately, she and her family selected to not listen. Instead, they focused on what she wanted for her life. She was determined to correct her disabilities.
Consequently, this young lady focused on where she desired to be, and he or she strove to achieve her goals. The advantages were evident: not only did she catch up along with her peer group, she also went on to finish her senior 12 months and further her studies after highschool. Focused pondering could also be difficult to attain, but with the key ingredient of determination, it’s possible — and the advantages will be life-changing
Excerpt from Chapter 6 of “Switch on Your Brain,” by Dr. Caroline Leaf, published by “Baker Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group,” ©2013, Used with permission.
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