By Adekunle A.
In an age where access to information is just a fingertip away, it is easy to get overwhelmed. We have more information at our disposal than ever before, but it seems that the more we have, the less we’re able to process. The issue isn’t the amount of information, but rather how we manage and use it. The phenomenon is called “information overload”, and it’s a problem that is all too familiar in our digital age.
In the not-so-distant past, information was a scarce commodity. Libraries, newspapers, and conversations were our primary sources of new information. Today, we’re bombarded with information from all sides – social media, news websites, blogs, podcasts, and endless streaming of entertainment. The result? More has become less.
But how did this happen? The problem isn’t just the sheer volume of information but also the speed at which it arrives. We’re inundated with notifications, updates, and messages that demand our immediate attention. Our brains are not wired to handle this relentless onslaught, and the constant interruption fragments our attention, leading to stress, decision fatigue, and ultimately, poor choices.
The quality of information has also become a concern. The democratisation of the internet means that anyone can publish content, leading to a sea of information with varying degrees of accuracy and reliability. The pressure to be the first to report news or trends often leads to hasty, unverified information. As a result, it becomes harder to discern what is trustworthy and what is not.
The good news is that we can take steps to manage information overload and regain control over our attention. Here are a few strategies:
- Filter and curate: Be selective about the information you consume. Follow reliable sources, unsubscribe from newsletters you no longer read, and mute or unfollow social media accounts that don’t add value to your life.
- Limit exposure: Set boundaries around your screen time. Designate specific times of the day for checking email, social media, or news websites. Avoid the temptation to constantly refresh your feeds.
- Prioritise deep work: Focus on tasks that require deep, uninterrupted concentration. Put your phone on silent, close irrelevant browser tabs, and create an environment conducive to focused work.
- Take breaks: Give your brain a break from the constant influx of information. Go for a walk, meditate, or engage in hobbies that allow your mind to rest and recharge.
- Practice critical thinking: Before sharing or acting on information, take a moment to verify its source and accuracy. Ask yourself whether the information aligns with your values and priorities.
In conclusion, information overload is a side effect of our digital age, where more has indeed become less. However, by being mindful of our information consumption and taking steps to manage it, we can make the most of the vast resources available to us without feeling overwhelmed. Remember, it’s not about the quantity of information we consume, but the quality and how we use it.