Do You Have Popcorn Brain?
Do you struggle with too many thoughts and not enough focus? You might have “Popcorn Brain”.
Popcorn Brain is what happens when your mind won’t slow down; when one thought pops up after another, leaving you overstimulated and exhausted.
The term was coined by David Levy, a researcher at the University of Washington, to describe the cognitive overload that comes from constant digital stimulation. It’s not a failure of willpower but a byproduct of modern life. I came across the term in an excellent article by Dr Samantha Boardman.
Side note: Popcorn Brain is not the same as ADHD (ADHD being a neurodevelopmental condition). But the experience of mental overstimulation can feel similar, especially in fast-paced, always-on environments.
There's good news, though. Dr Boardman's article shares a study that points to a surprisingly simple solution: spend less time online.
Deep down, you probably knew that already. So did I. I'll be honest: it's not what I wanted to hear.
I am taking action, though. I’ve started charging my phone outside the bedroom again: this time in my office overnight. It’s a small change, but it is reducing the time I spend online.
What’s one thing you could tweak today to reduce the time you spend online?
