Attention Span Test
I can tune out background sounds when I need to concentrate.
I wait for people to complete their thoughts before sharing mine.
Quiet activities like reading can completely capture my attention.
I remain interested and involved in extended discussions.
My home contains numerous projects I began but never completed.
When a job demands significant mental effort, I tackle it immediately.
I'm skilled at spotting minor mistakes like typos.
If an email arrives while I'm busy, I'll check it after I'm done.
Slow talkers make me feel restless.
I can complete tedious work when it matters.
I don't switch to another activity until I finish my current one.
I frequently use my phone while multitasking, such as during TV shows.
I complete tasks I begin.
Interruptions during work don't throw me off course for long.
When my thoughts drift, I can refocus them on my current activity.
Waiting for my turn tests my patience.
I rarely misplace essential items like keys or my wallet.
If I delay a task, I often forget about it later.
I pay close attention when others speak.
I can recall multiple directions given to me at once.
20 questions remaining
What You Should Know
- Some experts think that everyone's attention spans are getting shorter, but others aren't so sure. There is no question that modern life has a lot more things that can get in the way than life did in the past.
- Physiological factors, such as sleep deprivation and hunger, can substantially impact attention span; it is considerably more challenging to concentrate when fatigued or famished.
- It's perfectly normal and healthy for your mind to wander from time to time. In fact, studies show that letting our minds wander can help us remember things better and boost our creativity, which can help us come up with new ways to solve old problems.
- People often think of distraction as a bad thing, but it can be used for good. For example, many people find that listening to upbeat music is a good way to get through a tough workout.
- People with ADHD have trouble focusing. But a lot of people with ADHD also "hyperfocus" when they're working on something they care about, which means they block out everything else and get more done than usual.
- Our ability to focus is probably partly due to genetics and early environmental factors. But a lot of experts think that you can get better at paying attention if you practice and are patient.
Do Something Now
Turn off notifications. Our phones are a big source of distraction. Make changes to your settings so that you are only interrupted when it is important.
Take short breaks often. Go for a walk around the block, meditate for a few minutes, or do some quick stretches. Your brain will thank you.
Think about going to therapy. Even if you don't have ADHD, taking care of your mental health can help you pay attention better.
