Technology today seems to demand our constant attention. The modern “miracle” of the internet gives us the amazing capacity to access humanity’s collective learning in the palm of our hand. But for many, such constant access can come at a cost. Writer Linda Stone has coined the phrase “continual partial attention” to describe the modern impulse to always need to know what’s happening “out there,” to make sure we’re not missing anything. If that sounds like it could produce chronic anxiety, you’re right!
More and more, we hear of folks suffering from the above attention deficit, not by choice but because of the overwhelming level of content streaming across their browsers & apps day in day out as authored by our 700+ writers. Not only do they feel that they’re missing out on reading, but also missing out on sharing those articles that truly resonate with them. So what’s the solution?
Follow the Lead
✅ Step One: Follow the lead of Kimberly Davis, Myriam Ben Salem, and others who’ve now subscribed to our new @BC360° TODAY, A Daily Summary of the Best Writing on the Planet, as inspired by Jeff Ikler (see article below):
✅ Step Two: Follow their lead by scrolling through your edition of @BC360° TODAY by Title and Author to drill down to those that resonate with you. But don’t stop there, as it will be your chance to demonstrate more caring by sharing your favorites.
With sincer thanks to those mentioned above, perhaps the foundation has now been set to replace the frustration of “continued partial attention” with relaxed, at your convenience focused attention.
Great post Dennis. The best thing about the internet is there is so much data. The worst thing about the internet is there is so much data. Learning priorities, scheduling and sticking to the schedule for the amount of time is the new challenge. Kimberly Davis, I am right there with you.
Thank you, Frank – we’re hopeful that this tool will cut through some of the clutter out there to make room for great writing and podcasts, such as that delivered by you…
Dennis, tech overload is a much shared topic. Technology in many forms tends to call the shots. We feel the necessity to reply to texts, voicemails and emails instantly. Even when not really required or demanded. WE all like to be ‘acknowledged’ or ‘endorsed’ and I guess I am someone who does enjoy receiving a reply; but endeavor to back off from sending a ‘reminder’.
Space (not the outer space, galaxy type) is essential, but ‘organizing’ space-time (not 300,00 km per second) is essential for well personal wellbeing, which also has a positive effect on others; when they don’t feel under pressure to respond instantly.
There is the ultimate subliminal need to read each and every post. I do try to, and certainly reply to as many as feasible; especially very regular, close contacts. But there are so many awesome individuals who post awesome contents, it is challenging not to get engaged!
‘Convenience focused attention’ sounds interesting.
I do empathize with Kimberly Davis who has recognized and documented her experiences which will have provided practical and positive guidance to Linked and Bizcatalyst360 friends.
Thank you for this, Dennis; so much appreciated.
Simon
From across The Pond!
Your comments will resonate with so many, Simon, as most folks are simply doing the best they can with such an overload of channels, content, and expectations. Which is why we’re hopeful that these two steps will provide some level of relief. Ps. We also thank you for stepping up and sharing articles from your fellow contributors, as that is such a compliment to each writer.
I appreciate you @Dennis and offering a thoughtful approach to helping individuals mitigate ‘continual partial attention’ with the influx of data, articles and reports that we love to share in service of others. Will sign up to the daily summary which provides choice as to where to dive deeper – thank you.
Grateful for your comment here, Jane, but all credit goes to your fellow writers who not only inspired this notion, but are now stepping up an sharing the best of the best.
Well you know how I feel about this, Dennis! LOL! Grateful to be on this journey together!
Always “better together” my friend …