Are reels and shorts reducing our attention span?

 Ashutosh Roy

(ashutosh.roy.23@gmail.com)

In a world where our phones beep, our screens flash, and information is just a click away, it is becoming harder and harder to focus on one task for more than a few minutes. Our attention span, once the envy of the world, has become a victim of modern technology and the fast-paced lifestyle we lead. Attention span refers to the amount of time a person can concentrate on a task or activity without being distracted.

The rise of social media has led to a new trend in the way people start their day: watching reels. Reels are short videos that can be anything from funny clips to music performances. They are hugely popular on platforms like Instagram, YouTube and TikTok, and many people find themselves scrolling through them first thing in the morning. While watching reels can be a fun way to start the day and get a quick dose of entertainment, there are some potential downsides to this new habit. For one, consuming a lot of social media first thing in the morning can set a negative tone for the day and increase feelings of anxiety and stress.

Additionally, the fast-paced and constantly changing nature of reels can contribute to a reduction in attention span. With so many stimuli being presented in such a short amount of time, it can be challenging for our brains to keep up and fully focus on each piece of content. This can lead to a lack of deep focus and attention, which is crucial for retaining information and developing a sense of understanding. Moreover, constantly exposing ourselves to the highlight reels of others' lives can create unrealistic expectations and foster feelings of inadequacy, while also promoting a loss of self-esteem. Further, the pressure to create short, attention-grabbing content can result in a trend towards more superficial and surface-level content, which may not have the depth or substance to truly capture our attention.

However, it's worth noting that this is not just a problem with reels, but a larger issue with how we consume information in the digital age. The constant bombardment of notifications and distractions can make it difficult for our brains to focus and retain information, regardless of the content. As attention span varies from person to person and is influenced by a number of factors such as age, environment, and personal interests. It is also important to note that attention span is not a fixed trait but can be improved and trained through focus exercises and mindfulness practices.

Hence, to mitigate the impact of reels on attention span, it is important to practice mindfulness and set boundaries with technology. This can include by practicing mindfulness such as meditation and deep breathing, can help train the brain to focus and be more aware of the present moment. Try limiting distractions by creating a dedicated workspace that is free of distractions, such as notifications from your phone or computer. Exercise regularly, as it can improve focus and attention by increasing blood flow to the brain and releasing endorphins. Try to get enough sleep because a lack of sleep can negatively impact your attention span, so it is important to get adequate rest each night. Experimenting with a focus-enhancing technique such as the Pomodoro method and the Eisenhower matrix can help improve focus and attention. Stay hydrated as dehydration can impair cognitive function and lead to a decrease in attention span, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Reduce caffeine intake, while caffeine can provide a short-term boost in alertness, too much can lead to anxiety and jitters, which can negatively impact focus and attention. Take breaks as short breaks every hour or so can help prevent mental fatigue and improve overall focus and attention.

In conclusion, while reels can be an entertaining way to start the day, it is important to be mindful of the impact they can have on our emotions and attention span. By setting boundaries and using social media in moderation, while also being mindful of our consumption of technology and prioritizing focus and mental wellness, we can train our brains to have longer and more focused attention spans.