BBC news says that, "Workers distracted by email and phone calls suffer a fall in IQ more than twice that found in marijuana smokers,
new research has claimed. The study for computing firm Hewlett Packard warned of a rise in "infomania", with people becoming addicted to email and text messages. Researchers found 62% of people checked work messages at home or on holiday. The firm said new technology can help productivity, but users must learn to switch computers and phones off."
What's Driving This Trend
- Digital Detox
- With the rise of infomania, a trend towards digital detox is emerging as people seek to disconnect from technology and prioritize productivity.
- Work-life Balance
- As more people check work messages outside of working hours, companies should focus on implementing work-life balance policies to prevent burnout and improve productivity.
- AI-powered Time Management
- The increasing prevalence of infomania creates potential for AI-powered solutions to manage time and streamline information, enhancing productivity and reducing distraction.
Who This Affects Most
- Technology
- As Hewlett Packard suggests, new technology can help productivity and there is potential for innovation in the development of tools and apps designed to boost productivity and reduce infomania.
- Health and Wellness
- As infomania becomes more prevalent, the health and wellness industry may see an opportunity to promote various services, products, and programs designed to help individuals focus and facilitate wellbeing.
- HR and Management
- As infomania continues to disrupt productivity, HR and management professionals should prioritize training and policies that promote attentiveness, focus and productivity in the workplace.
