Distraction stems from internal triggers from "summary" of Indistractable by Nir Eyal,Julie Li-Eyal
The root cause of distraction lies within us, not in the external environment. We often blame external triggers such as notifications, emails, or noisy coworkers for our lack of focus. However, the truth is that these external triggers are not the primary drivers of distraction. Instead, it is our internal triggers that lead us astray. Internal triggers are uncomfortable feelings or emotions that we seek to escape from. These can be anything from boredom, loneliness, stress, or anxiety. When we experience these negative emotions, we instinctively look for ways to numb or avoid them. This is when we turn to distractions like checking our phones, surfing the internet, or binge-watching TV shows.
By giving in to these internal triggers, we are essentially looking for a quick fix to make ourselves feel better in the moment. However, this temporary relief comes at a cost - it prevents us from addressing the root cause of our discomfort. Instead of facing our feelings and dealing with them in a healthy way, we continue to distract ourselves, perpetuating a cycle of temporary relief followed by more distraction.
To become indistractable, we must learn to recognize and manage our internal triggers. This involves acknowledging our feelings without judgment and finding healthier ways to cope with them. Instead of reaching for our phones when we feel bored or stressed, we can practice mindfulness, engage in deep work, or connect with others in meaningful ways. By addressing the root cause of our distractions, we can break free from the cycle of temporary relief and move towards a more focused and fulfilling life.
