Post by account_disabled on Mar 4, 2024 22:43:33 GMT -5
In today's society, where immediate returns are valued, it is fair to say that short-termism is in fashion. We live in an age of technology where globalization and unprecedented social interconnectedness are changing the way we live and our social relationships, including our relationships with ourselves . In this context, the search for quick success seems to be the social norm, while hard work and dedication sustained over time seem less attractive and more unpleasant. More and more young people want to become influencers , an aspiration that is mediated by the desire for immediacy and the lack of commitment to long-term goals. We want change, we long for more, but we often lack the motivation to succeed. Short-termism predicts our lack of satisfaction and involvement with our own work . With this in mind, it is worth considering how these factors can significantly affect our mental health and cognitive abilities. CTA Post The instant gratification trap Nowadays, spending time on social networks such as TikTok, Instagram, Twitch, Twitter, etc.
Become the most common of our addictions. The constant flow of images and content catches us and releases "endorphins" or pleasure hormones in the brain. A pleasure that comes with a cost. Indeed, our adolescents are experiencing serious alterations in their self-esteem and mental health as a result of the use of social networks. Young people who use more than 3 hours a day are at particular risk . Furthermore, our bad digital habits not only take a toll on our mental Europe Mobile Number List health, but also on our physical health . Effects on cognitive health Our digital consumption habits may also be an important factor in our cognitive health, which refers to our mental acuity and ability to process information and make informed decisions. The paradox here is that this constant stimulation can lead to a lack of real mental stimulation . Consequently, we may see negative effects on our attention, our memory, or our low tolerance for situations that do not provide us with an immediate reward . We can even observe consequences on our ability to deal with others and understand their emotions .
All this, accompanied by possible alterations in our own brain structure . The worrying emergence of artificial intelligence in educational contexts does not help either. Despite its potential advantages, some evidence already suggests that it can contribute negatively to our willingness to make our own decisions . Without a doubt, the challenge we will face in the coming years will be to achieve a balance between the cognitive relief that artificial intelligence will offer us and the lack of positive mental activity that it can mean for our neurodevelopment . Mental training as a compensatory solution By letting technological devices do the thinking for us, we miss the opportunity to stimulate our brains with enriching activities that keep our minds agile and ready. Learning to make our own decisions, and knowing how to do so without expecting an immediate benefit, is an investment in our future problem-solving ability . The good news, however, is that both motivation and our cognitive abilities are skills that can be developed and strengthened. The goal of mental training is to periodically challenge our mental capabilities. Through continuous cognitive training, we can overcome mental laziness and change our short-term thinking. This includes participation in puzzles, problem-solving activities, and continuous learning.