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Stress affects focus from "summary" of Your Brain at Work by David Rock
When stress levels are high, our ability to focus is significantly compromised. This is because stress triggers the release of cortisol, a hormone that can interfere with the functioning of the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for executive functions such as decision-making, problem-solving, and focus. When cortisol levels are elevated, the prefrontal cortex becomes less efficient at processing information, making it harder for us to concentrate on the task at hand. In addition, stress can also activate the amygdala, the brain's fear center, which further impairs our ability to focus by diverting our attention to perceived threats and away from our goals. Furthermore, chronic stress can lead to structural changes in the brain, particularly in the hippocampus, which plays a crucial role in memory and learning. When the hippocampus is compromised, our ability to retain information and stay focused is severely impacted. To make matters worse, the amygdala has a stronger influence on the brain than the prefrontal cortex, especially in times of stress. This means that our attention is more likely to be hijacked by negative emotions and distractions when we are under pressure, making it even harder to maintain focus on our tasks.- It is important to cultivate practices that promote relaxation and reduce cortisol levels, such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and regular physical activity. By managing stress effectively, we can enhance our ability to concentrate, make better decisions, and ultimately perform at our best.
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