Why Attention Matters

Why Attention Matters

Attention could be described as a spotlight that focuses an individual's awareness on a particular facet of their environment, or on the thoughts in their head. The ability to pay attention to important things—and to ignore the rest—likely helped early humans survive and evolve. Now, it’s a skill that can help children and adults alike succeed in school, at work, and in their relationships.

Some people—particularly those with ADHD or other mental health concerns—regularly struggle to pay attention when it matters, while others naturally have more control over their “spotlight.” For most people, the ability to pay attention varies in certain situations—for instance, when they're able to work in a distraction-free environment—or with the aid of certain drugs such as caffeine, Ritalin, or other stimulants.