Samrita Charak
Can you read this article without checking your phone? Or even spend a day without going through social media. No, right? In this digital era, people lack the ability to focus. There was a time when people used to hold attention for hours whether in studies, watching hour long movies or doing a chore but now many of us struggle to engage even for a few seconds. Social media plays a major role in shrinking the span of their attention with it’s endless feed and addictive short form content, has rewired the way our brains consume information. Consequently, it effects learning, productivity, relationships and mental health.
Social media role-Social media has a pivotal role in managing the attention crisis among individuals. It’s ability to maximize screen time and reduce the mindfulness has resulted in the reduction of attention span. Platforms such as Instagram and YouTube where the feed never ends, there are endless short form content like reels of 15-30 seconds keep people hooked longer than you intend. Algorithms on social media ensures to prioritise keywords and audience engagement tailored to your interests. Each and every notification interrupts our mind and drift our attention throughout the day. It feels like social media is using us instead of the other way around.
Consequences of a Declining Attention Span- The effects of the reducing attention span has been spread across different areas of life. In the academic field, students find harder and boring to read long chapters which leads them to scroll through social media that a short break turns into hour of scrolling. People often get distracted and takes longer to complete even simpler tasks which leads to the act of procrastination. This constant cycle of distraction often breeds anxiety and addiction. People often feel unheard and under valued because their friend or family are half present in reality and are occupied by social media.
Can We Reclaim our Focus?- We all know that our brain is adaptable. It can help restore and increase our attention span. One can reduce their screen time and disable unnecessary notifications to focus in their real life. Instead of checking social media every few minutes, designate specific times of the day. Reading books, listening to long podcasts, or even journaling can train the brain to restore immersive engagement. A person who wants to calm his mind can actually practice meditation and deep breathing to strengthen attention span over time. The goal is not to refrain social media but to use it more wisely.
Conclusion – In this digital age, reduced attention span has become a challenge. Social media has given us number opportunities but it also has reduced our ability to stay present. The affects can be seen everywhere. Technology is not the villain, it is the overuse and lack of balance. In a world that constantly demands attention, the greatest self care is choosing where to spend it.
Focus is the New Gold, invest it where you want growth.
(The writer is a master’s degree mass communication student at Central University of Jammu)
