By Staff Writer: Jamiliere Luranc Sweeney
In today’s world, it can be difficult to sit still long enough to read a few chapters of a book or even watch a two-hour movie. Many people are experiencing shorter attention spans, which affects not only leisure activities but also the ability to finish assignments, follow lectures, or focus during meetings.
The average person now focuses on a single screen for just 47 seconds, down from 2.5 minutes in 2004, said Dr. Gloria Mark, speaking with the American Psychological Association. Experts point to constant notifications, the 24/7 news cycle, and increased screen time as major causes.
The good news: attention can be improved with practice. Harvard Health Publishing notes that gradually increasing the time you spend focusing, such as reading for slightly longer each day, helps build attention endurance. While it may feel difficult at first, consistent practice strengthens focus over time.
Some tips to make staying on task easier include reducing interruptions by silencing notifications and keeping your phone out of reach. Additionally, limiting short-form content such as TikTok, Instagram Reels, and Facebook Reels is key, since these platforms train the brain to expect quick bursts of stimulation. Finally, when working on a task that requires focus, take short breaks of 10 to 15 minutes to stretch, walk, or rest, avoiding social media or television.
Paying attention may feel harder than ever in an age of constant information, but it is possible to retrain your brain. With consistent practice and mindful strategies, you can reclaim your attention span and return to tasks that feel more meaningful and rewarding.