1 . We’re fortunate to have access to the dynamic network technology, which provides rich resources for learning, connecting and entertaining ourselves.     1     The same tool that can enhance our work efficiency also has the power to trap us in a web of distractions (分心之事).

    2     An astonishing 84.4% of us, on average, report being distracted at work. There are some usual suspects. Emails steal the attention of 26%. Phone calls and texts influence a massive 43%. Coworkers shift the attention of 27%. And the Internet, with its infinite source of information and entertainment, distracts 41% of us. What’s more, a survey reveals that an overwhelming 67% of workers say that their work is often affected by the excessive time spent on meetings and calls.

These distractions are more than mere annoyances.     3     It is their lasting impact that makes it impossible for us to focus on any single task. In this way, they greatly reduce our work efficiency.

A study offers more insight into our struggle with distractions. It found that our brain waves pulsate (搏动) at different frequencies depending on the type of external stimuli. The rhythm is faster for automatic stimuli but slows down for tasks we consciously choose to focus on.     4    

Just think about it: You’re involved in a project, and then your phone receives a text message.     5     And regaining your focus might be harder than you anticipate, The same goes for that catchy news headline or an interesting social media post that catches your eye-pulling you away from your task and making you lost in the sea of distractions.