The smartphone trap…

Adrian Ward and colleagues published their study in the Journal of Association for Consumer Research. “Although these devices have immense potential to improve welfare, their persistent presence may come at a cognitive cost.”… Results from their two experiments indicate that even when people are successful at maintaining sustained attention—as when avoiding the temptation to check their phones—even the mere presence of these devices reduces available cognitive capacity. Moreover, these cognitive costs are highest for those highest in smartphone dependence…

So if you’re hoping to prevent this “brain drain” and boost your cognitive function, especially at work or when you’re out with your significant other, try leaving your phone in another room, tucked away in your car or locked in a drawer. When you realize that you don’t have immediate access to it, you free up your brain to focus solely on what’s in front of you.

— Ray Williams (CEO, Author, university faculty member, consultant, trainer and Executive Coach)

I remember way back, when my colleague got a smartphone (the Blackberry). He was a technical support person and needed to be on call. He exposed me to the email availability, and then texting shortly after. It was super cool and efficient. You didn’t have to continue working at home on your laptop because you could fire back, at will, in real time on your phone. It didn't take long for the “Crackberry” effect to take hold though. Who knew we’d end up practically living on our phones. Personally speaking, I leave my phone on silent for the most part because the ringing and dinging became stressful. I don’t leave my phone at home or anything, but I do leave it in my purse while driving now (after getting a $375 ticket for distracted driving. Ouch! Hey, I was stopped at a light and I put it right back down when the light turned green. Nope. Still go the ticket). At night, I leave my phone in the other room, for at least some of the time. I’m determined to expand on these device-free measures because I know the 24/7’ness of my phone adds a layer of unnecessary stress. Just sayin’ ;) Hugs. XO

Blessings,

Chatgirl