Generation Z – often called the most connected generation ever – is facing a new kind of challenge: a rapidly shrinking attention span.
With endless scrolling, algorithm-curated feeds, and dopamine-driven distractions, really focusing on one thing for more than a few minutes can feel like a huge struggle.
But does it have to be this way? Not at all.
Here’s how young Kenyans can hack their minds, get their focus back, and stay sharp in an age of constant digital noise.
What’s Really Going On? The Science of Our Shifting Focus
Studies suggest the average human attention span has dropped significantly, from around 12 seconds in 2000 to just 8 seconds today. Some researchers even joke it’s less than a goldfish!
However, experts are quick to point out that Gen Z isn’t lazy or unfocused. Instead, they’re simply overstimulated.
“You’re not broken – you’re bombarded. It’s not attention deficit; it’s attention competition.”
— Dr. Lilian Onyango*, Cognitive Psychologist
With everything from TikTok to Telegram battling for your attention, it’s hardly surprising that staying focused feels like a full-time job. Your brain is simply trying to keep up with the overwhelming amount of information.
Reclaim Your Focus: Practical Habits for Gen Z
Ready to boost your brainpower and beat the distraction trap? Here are some simple, effective habits to try:
Practice Intentional Boredom: Instead of grabbing your phone the moment things slow down, lean into that feeling of boredom. Let your brain reset and wander. This can actually boost your creativity and improve your ability to focus later.
Try the Pomodoro Technique: This method involves working or studying in short, focused bursts – typically 25 minutes – followed by a short break. Think of it like high-intensity interval training (HIIT) for your brain: high output, but low burnout.
Prioritise What Matters: Use a simple method like the Eisenhower Matrix to sort your tasks into ‘urgent’ and ‘important’ categories. Don’t let social media notifications feel more pressing than your actual goals and responsibilities.
Train Your Brain with Mindfulness: Apps like Headspace or various YouTube meditations can teach you how to sit still, observe your thoughts, and gently redirect your attention. Start small, even just three minutes a day, and build from there.
Go Deep, Not Wide: Pick one book, one article, or one podcast and commit to finishing it without jumping between different sources. Reward yourself once you’ve completed it. This helps train your brain for sustained engagement.
“Fictional books do the trick, they help your imagination and creative faculty go overboard.” Michael*, Career Coach.
Detox Your Digital Feed: Take control of your online world. Mute, unfollow, or pause accounts that constantly overload your feed. Curate your digital space with intention, just like you would your wardrobe or living space.
“In a world full of noise, focus becomes a superpower. Gen Z has the tools – they just need the intention.”
— Brian Muli*, Youth Coach
