The Struggle Of ‘Popcorn Brain’ And How To Cope With It

If you ever find yourself struggling to focus on a single task or thought, you may have "popcorn brain." In 2011, the University of Washington researcher David Levy said that too much time in front of digital devices can lead to this. He describes it as the mind being so hooked on electronic multitasking that the slower-paced life offline holds no interest. A person’s attention quickly jumps from thought to thought, like the kernels inside a popcorn bag.

In 2023, CNN reported that the human attention span is shrinking. A professor of informatics at the University of California, who studies how digital media affects our lives, told the outlet that in 2004, the average attention on a screen was 2½ minutes. "Some years later, we found attention spans to be about 75 seconds. Now we find people can only pay attention to one screen for an average of 47 seconds," she added.

There's a study that shows consistent use of phones, computers, and social media platforms has a "profound effect" on our attention spans. Another study reported by Scientific Reports found that the presence of a smartphone reduces cognitive performance. A study by Stanford University determined that switching our attention between social media, smartphones, and tablets, as well as TV and radio, harms our ability to complete simple tasks.

There's hope if you have popcorn brain. Some people can easily switch from the constant activity of online life to the slower pace of the real world. Some ways to cope with popcorn brain include keeping a record of your online life, setting time limits for your internet use, picking up a non-digital activity, or getting tested.

Most phones have ways to track your screen time. However, it doesn’t give you exact amounts. Think about it. Those phone features only track screen time with phones and not other means of technology you use throughout the day. But it can give you somewhat of an idea of how much screen time you consume. According to the Mayo Clinic Health System, there are many benefits to slimming down screen time such as improvements to your physical and mental health.

If you feel like you may have a problem with the amount of time you’re devoting to the internet, or if someone you love is concerned, you can always get tested. The Center for Internet and Technology Addiction offers a virtual Internet addiction test that can help you determine whether it might be time to shut down, log off, or step away.

Many of us tend to offer apologies too frequently, even when unnecessary. Occasionally, we find ourselves saying "sorry" for circumstances beyond our control, such as unfavorable weather during an event we're hosting. At times, we extend apologies for personal life decisions that are well within our rights, like switching jobs or ending a relationship.

Furthermore, we might apologize due to our heightened sensitivity to others' emotions, in hopes that we didn't accidentally upset them. It’s great to apologize when we've genuinely messed up or think we might have hurt someone without meaning to. But there are some choices we should just own and not feel the need to apologize for.

According to a report by Forbes, excessive apologizing often occurs in individuals who struggle with low self-esteem, a fear of conflict, and a concern about others' opinions. They say this tendency is closely linked to having weak personal boundaries, which can lead to taking responsibility for situations we have no involvement in or no control over. As a result, we quickly experience guilt, as if everything is our fault.

In a study published in The European Journal of Social Psychology, researchers found that with each apology, individuals may experience a decrease in their confidence, potentially influencing their self-image. On the other hand, participants who refrained from expressing remorse in these situations showed signs of higher self-esteem, an increased sense of control, and an enhanced sense of integrity, as per the research findings.

When things get rocky with a partner, friend, family member, or coworker, saying a heartfelt "I'm sorry" can be the way to patch things up. Ideally, both sides would do some soul-searching and own up to any wrongdoing. If you're wondering whether you should apologize for something, just take a peek at situations where there may be no need to apologize.

Your aspirations and career choices are deeply personal, and you should never feel the need to apologize for following your passions. Go after what makes you happy. Embrace your journey and stay committed to your dreams.

Establishing boundaries is crucial for your well-being. It's a sign of self-respect and self-care, and there's no reason to apologize for defining what you're comfortable with and what you're not. It's okay to say no and stand up for your own needs.

Politely declining requests or invitations is about respecting your own priorities and limitations. You should never apologize for making choices that align with your needs and values. If you'd rather binge a show and relax than go out, that's your call. No need to apologize for prioritizing what matters to you.

Taking time for self-care, whether it's a mental health day, a spa visit, or simply some downtime, is essential. You don't need to apologize for nurturing your physical and emotional health. Taking some "me-time" is a must.

Decisions regarding your appearance, health, or lifestyle are personal matters. There's no requirement to apologize for choices that are made responsibly and considerately. If you've noticed some silver strands or a couple of extra pounds, you might be tempted to say sorry for these changes in your looks. Don't. It's best to steer clear of apologies and self-critical remarks, as they can undermine your self-assurance and influence how others perceive you.

Your emotional and mental well-being should always be a priority. Don't apologize for ending toxic relationships that no longer serve your best interests. Toxic friendships or partnerships? Walk away with your head held high.

Everyone needs a break from time to time. Whether it's for rest or recreation, you should never apologize for taking the time to relax, recharge, and enjoy life. It's okay to take a step back every now and then.

Experiencing and expressing emotions is part of being human. You should never apologize for your feelings. There is nothing wrong with showing your emotions. Everyone has them.

Achieving success through hard work and dedication is a significant accomplishment. It's something to celebrate, not something to feel sorry for. You worked hard for your achievements, so flaunt them.

It's important to recognize that you are not responsible for how others feel or their personal insecurities. It's not your job to apologize for things that aren't your fault. People's emotions and self-esteem are shaped by a variety of factors, including their own experiences and perceptions. Being understanding and empathetic is great, but don't carry the weight of apologizing for things that aren't on you. It's a surefire way to end up feeling unnecessarily guilty.