Consider these primary symptoms of the disorder known as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD):

• Often has difficulty in sustaining attention in tasks
• Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
• Often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities
• Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort
  Is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli

Many of us admit experiencing most of these traits.  The new technologies ( texting, tweeting, facebook, google searching,…) are putting infinite demands on our attention and as we try to juggle them all, we literally weaken our capacity for absorbed focus. But what is the cost of it all on our well-being?  According to the former Microsoft and Apple researcher Linda Stone: “the consequence is we’re over stimulated, over-wound, and unfulfilled.”

Attention is like any muscle. It gets stronger by training it systematically. Here are three powerful attentional practices to get us started.

• Set aside at least one designated time each week to think creatively, reflectively, strategically or long term.
• Take at least a half an hour in the evening to read something challenging and absorbing – an antidote to churning out emails, and racing between websites.
• Do the most important thing first every morning, without interruptions, for at least 60 to 90 minutes. It’s the ideal way to take charge of your agenda and get the most challenging work done, with the highest efficiency. 

Source: Tony Schwartz, Posted June 1st, 2010 - The Huffington Post