A typical attention span is 8 seconds. That’s shorter than the 9-second attention span of the average goldfish! (Statistic Brain) That’s 4 seconds shorter than back in the year 2000, and the trend continues.

It’s crazy to think that as evolved as we are, our attention span can be compared to a fish. This is one of the weak points of the human race. Our fascination with trying to engage with everything and technology making that more possible, has led us into a culture of shallow engagement where more is better.

What you can do to start to counter this negative habit, is time yourself as you engage in something, whether that be reading a an article on LAUNCH! or using one app on your phone. See how quickly you break focus and move on to the next thing. This is your attention span threshold. Week by week attempt to lengthen it by trying to increase your engagement by 15 seconds with each interaction. Focus by trying to let your whole mind become absorbed with the material. Ask critically thoughtful questions that will encourage you to dig deeper into the material.

Building up the skill of focusing can greatly increase your productivity and learning capabilities.

TEST YOURSELF!

Try the test here on this average length article that will take you more than 8 seconds to read and see where your threshold lies: “Stop Starting and Start Finishing”

Think you have a high threshold? Try an even longer article here: “What’s Next In Social Media?” 

SOURCES

"Attention Span Statistics." Statistic Brain. 2008. http://www.statisticbrain.com/attention-span-statistics/