Getting Smarter in a Distracted World: 4 Brain Workouts for Nonprofit Leaders

Getting Smarter in a “Dumber” World? Yes, it’s possible - and necessary.

If you follow our content, you know we are big fans of Cal Newport, certainly the most-mentioned author in our “Patton’s Picks” list of book recommendations. His work through Deep Work and Slow Productivity have helped countless nonprofit leaders navigate distraction and reclaim their focus.

On a recent Deep Questions podcast episode (#346), Cal takes on a disturbing but fascinating idea: a 2023 Norwegian study found that IQ levels have been declining globally since smartphones became ubiquitous around 2012. He doesn’t just sound the alarm but gives us four practical brain exercises to reverse the trend.

They immediately reminded us of a key principle in our Mastermind program: leaders need to Get in Shape; not just physically, but mentally. Here's how Cal says we can do just that:

Interval Training for Your Brain. Can you focus on one hard task for 30 minutes - without checking email, Slack, or scrolling? Gradually build your cognitive stamina to 60, then 90 minutes. (Deep Work, anyone?)

Dialectical Reading. Pick two books that thoughtfully disagree on a controversial issue. Don’t try to “win”, try to understand. Critical thinking muscles don’t build themselves.

Create Idea Documents. Choose a topic you care about. Create a running document where you add notes from what you’re reading, watching, or thinking. Writing forces clarity. You’ll surprise yourself.

Go on a Digital Diet. Stop snacking on whatever content the algorithm throws your way. Curate your information sources intentionally, and skip the doom scroll.

📣 If you’re leading a nonprofit in today’s noisy, distracted world, your mental fitness is mission-critical. We are grateful for thought leaders like Newport who help us strengthen the muscle that matters most.

🎧 Check out Episode 346, and let us know which “brain exercise” you’re trying this week.

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