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Meadow James
Sep 253 min read

Do Humans Really Have the Attention Span of a Goldfish?



The statistic that humans have a shorter attention span than goldfish is incorrect and over-simplified, but speaks to the recurring problem many of us have staying focused throughout the day. Attention span is defined by the length of time an individual can remain focused and engaged on a task. In our evolving world, we are inundated with information and it can be difficult to keep track of everything. Technology has become a very accessible distraction, allowing us to scroll on social media and stay in touch with family, friends, and co-workers at all hours of the day.  A constant distraction pulls us away from a task and ultimately prevents deep focus. The question is, what can we do to improve attention and maintain deep focus?


Different Types of Attention


One of the reasons we can’t be compared to goldfish is the complexity of our attention. Our environment requires us to adjust what we focus on, how we prioritize tasks, and what stimuli we block out. There are many different categories of attention, but here are four common types we use in our everyday lives:


  1. Selective Attention: The ability to choose what stimuli to focus on while blocking out other distractions

  2. Divided Attention: The ability to attend to two different stimuli at the same time 

  3. Sustained Attention: The ability to focus on a task for a sustained period

  4. Executive Attention: The ability to prioritize and focus on the tasks necessary to achieve a specific goal


Attention Span in Toddlers and Adults 


Attention span is a valuable tool for children as they explore the world, learn about their environment, and engage in new activities. Toddlers are known to be constantly on the move, picking up a new toy every few minutes, and needing consistent re-direction to complete a task. Research shows that attention is not only linked to learning and cognitive development but also to a child’s capacity to delay gratification and manage emotions effectively. Supporting positive skill development and attentional processes in children are influenced by many factors, such as how we engage in play with toddlers and screen time. For example, allowing toddlers to engage in creative play is more beneficial for their learning and growth than leading the play yourself and being directive. In addition, screens have become an integral part of our lives and will continue to be, so we need to learn how to use them for our benefit and not let them be a hindrance. Excessive screen time may impact cognitive development, social-emotional growth, and attention, so it’s vital to follow the professional guidelines concerning screen time for toddlers and children. 


Attention span gradually increases as we age, however young adults commonly have greater attention spans than older adults. Regardless of age, staying focused can be difficult with a seemingly endless array of tasks and long to-do lists. Technology has strengthened our connections with family and friends and is highly beneficial in the workplace, but it can also serve as a distraction. Receiving a notification draws us away from a task and gives us something to check. Not only is it difficult to ignore a notification when our phone lights up or we hear it buzz, but we know the phone is always accessible when we want to take a break. The constant disruptions and task switching make us less productive and will result in the task taking longer to complete. Here are examples of what we can do to promote deep focus and be more productive:


  1. Turn off notifications and set time limits on social media: By limiting distractions, you give yourself scheduled time to focus and remain on task

  2. Focus on one task at a time: We are simply not able to multi-task, and constantly switching between tasks can get exhausting 

  3. Take scheduled breaks: Rest and recovery decreases burn out and can improve motivation

  4. Meditate: Builds executive attention and strengthens resilience and discipline  

  5. Exercise: Improves cognitive control and reduces stress 

  6. Maintain a planner and clearly outline daily goals: Setting small tasks to complete provides a sense of accomplishment and keeps you accountable


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