Consequences of Distractions

I’ve posted before about the Myth of Multitasking (how it's not very efficient and can make you stupid) and there is more information out in the New York Times today around the myth and the mental price we pay by being consumed with so much technology. In short, we are becoming a nation unable to focus and block out extraneous information which causes us to experience more stress and have less ability to think deeply and strategically. The article mentions a new study in which, “Computer users at work change windows or check e-mail or other programs nearly 37 times an hour.” Holy cow, no wonder so many people are struggling with balance. I’m exhausted just thinking about the mental process needed to alter my thoughts 37 times in one hour, something to the extent of every 100 seconds. I highly encourage you to read the article, especially the doubters out there who still think multitasking is productive.