A Stone Age Brain in a TikTok World?
The human brain is a marvel of evolution. Finely tuned over millions of years to help us survive and thrive. But let’s be honest: the world we live in today is far from the one our ancestors faced. And our stone age brains sometimes struggle to keep up with the changes.
Imagine this:
Thousands of years ago, our ancestors were busy hunting, gathering and protecting themselves from predators. Their brains were wired for quick decision-making, recognizing patterns and focusing on short-term rewards. Basically, staying alive.
Fast forward to today. Instead of worrying about where our next meal comes from, many of us are more likely to stress over email overload, social media comparisons, or the complexities of modern finances.
Our brains are bombarded with information that has little to do with our immediate survival. And sometimes, it feels like we’re not quite equipped to handle it all.
ADHD in a Sea of Distractions
This disconnect between our ancient brains and modern challenges is especially interesting when considering conditions like ADHD.
Our world is filled with distractions, instant gratifications, and cognitive demands that are very different from the ones our ancestors faced.
For those with ADHD, who are naturally more sensitive to external stimuli, navigating this environment can be particularly tough.
Stress, which might have been a life-saving reaction in the past, can become a constant companion, making focus and decision-making even harder.
Why Sitting Still Isn’t (Always) the Solution
But here’s the thing: it’s not just people with ADHD who feel this strain.
The modern world puts a lot of pressure on all of us. Whether it’s the endless notifications on our phones or the expectations to always be “on.”
Strategies like mindfulness and meditation are often suggested to help us cope.
But let’s be real – how many people with ADHD do you know who find sitting still and focusing on their breath easy or even enjoyable?
The first step is recognizing that the ADHD brain might not be suited for today’s world.
Recognizing that the ADHD brain, or any brain for that matter, might not be perfectly suited to today’s world is the first step toward finding strategies that work.
Thriving in a Fast-Paced World
It’s about understanding that our brains, shaped by evolution, have their own strengths and limitations.
By embracing our individual cognitive profiles – whether that includes ADHD, hormonal fluctuations, or unique personality traits – we can seek out a balance that allows us to thrive in this fast-paced, ever-changing world.
So, while our brains might not be entirely optimally built for the modern world. Understanding how they work and what they need, can help us navigate these challenges with a bit more ease and much more self-compassion.
Lotta Borg Skoglund
MD PhD & Letterlife Co-founder
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