Focus: The Lost Superpower

Reclaiming attention in a world of distractions

In the future, I think the ability to focus will be one of the greatest superpowers a human can have. Today, I listened to a podcast. She spoke of focus being an important skill and how we’re “evolving.” That word often implies progress, but evolution isn’t always positive — or is it? The modern world is pushing us to constantly do, do, do — to multitask and juggle multiple things at once.

Look around. It’s not uncommon to see kids on screens, talking to their friends, and still somehow catching snippets of what the teacher is saying. But is it truly sinking in? I’m not sure. We’ve only ever got 100% to give — so some things aren’t getting the attention they deserve.

The reality is that we’ve normalised doing several things at the same time: talking on the phone while drinking water and driving a car. Does this have benefits? Sure, in some cases. But at what cost? The ability to focus is slipping. This could be our downfall.

I remember having gut and digestive issues. My naturopath told me I didn’t chew my food. I told her that was bullshit. She told me it wasn’t! I went home that night, my gorgeous doggo welcomed me, I made a meal, sat down in front of the television, with my phone in hand and began eating. Well, I must’ve eaten — because I looked down and my plate was empty … she was right … oops.

After working with thousands of people, I’ve seen how difficult it is for many to sit…