Increase Your Attention Span

According to a study done by Microsoft Corp., humans typically lose concentration after about eight seconds. It gets worse–the goldfish has an attention span of nine seconds. Most likely, this is the effect on our brains from increased use of technology. Before technology was as prevalent as it is now, you may actually see a family chatting at dinner. Now, it’s more often you see a child playing video games on a hand-held device while parents are scrolling through the newsfeed on social media.

What if we realize our obsession with technology and want to go back to being able to read a book all the way through again? How can we try to increase the length of our attention span?

  1. Think of your brain as if it’s a muscle that needs to be exercised in order to stay in good shape. Doing puzzles and crosswords to help keep your wheels turning is beneficial.
  2. Music can be medicine for your brain. Type in “focus music” on YouTube, and it’ll give you a list of smooth, calm, instrumental songs. I personally recommend reading about binaural beats and listening while you’re focusing on a task.
  3. Believe it or not, you may be dehydrated if your attention span is lagging. Constantly drinking water is beneficial for all the functions of your body.
  4. You may be multitasking too often. With multiple screens open on your computer or cell-phone, you’re focusing on too many things at once. Try to focus in on one important thing at a time.
  5. Meditation has numerous health benefits. Part of the reason people meditate is to focus solely on. . . nothing. Releasing all the thoughts going through your head at one time can quiet your mind enough to start focusing again.

Simply being aware of the length of your attention span will help increase your focus on improvement. Remind yourself of your goal when you get sidetracked. With effort, maybe you can beat the goldfish.

By: KayLynn P.


Do you have questions about your insurance? Find an insurance agent near you with our Agent Finder

Search All Blogs

Generic filters

Buzz Your
Insurance Agent

Search for a local agent with our agent finder map.

Agent Finder

Want to learn more about our blog writer?

Read more about KayLynn's background.

Click Here

Search All Blogs

Generic filters

Read More Blogs

The Soundtrack of Silliness: Unraveling the World of Misheard Song Lyrics

Ever sung “Hold me closer, Tony Danza”? You’re not alone! Explore the hilarious world of misheard song lyrics and the stories behind them.

Small Steps, Big Impact: Achieving a Healthier Lifestyle Without Radical Overhaul

Forget extreme diets and intense workouts. Learn how simple, everyday choices can add up to a healthier lifestyle.

Beyond Luxury: A Glimpse into the Hyper-Exclusive World of Supercars

Discover the hyper-exclusive world of supercars: lightning-fast, incredibly expensive machines like the McLaren Artura, Lamborghini Sian, Aston Martin Valkyrie, and Bugatti Chiron.

Decoding Your Home Insurance: Replacement Value vs. Market Value – What Every Homeowner Needs to Know

Learn the key difference between replacement value and market value in homeowners’ insurance and why insuring for replacement cost is vital. Plus, discover the importance of regular policy reviews.

Southern State Stories: Unraveling the Origins of Their Names

From royalty to rivers: The surprising stories behind Southern state names.

Unlock Your Local Market: Leveraging the Power of Local Advertising Media

Beyond the ad buy: How to maximize your local advertising potential.

Weaving Family History: The Power and Importance of a Family Timeline

More than just dates: Crafting a family timeline to connect generations and preserve memories.

Teen Drivers and Insurance: Navigating the Road Ahead (Without Breaking the Bank)

Surviving teen driving insurance: Tips and tricks for parents.

Decoding Your Homeowners Insurance: Are You Truly Covered?

Surprises and coverage: Understanding what your homeowners insurance really protects.

The Rise and Fall of Selfridge: Beyond “The Customer Is Always Right”

More than a slogan: The fascinating story of Harry Gordon Selfridge.