The Brain is a Sponge

We often hear that our brain behaves like a sponge when it comes to soaking up information. But just like all sponges, there is a limit to be reached, beyond which further absorption does not take place. The sponge must be drained.

I would like to take this metaphor further.

A sponge does its best job of absorption when it is completely dry. The absorption is the most efficient when the sponge is kept in one bowl for a long time. 

Move the sponge from bowl to bowl without giving it enough time, and most of the water either remains in the bowl or falls out. This might sound familiar because it is exactly what our brains go through in this digital age.

I have found that I am more perceptive to understanding information when I am able to really soak in it for a lengthy period of time. In his book, Deep Work, Cal Newport explained how task switching introduces significant cognitive load to the mind. His recommendation was to dedicate only a few hours of the day to intense, focused work. This would be a much more effective alternative to long hours of distracted, busy work. I can personally relate to this observation and subsequent recommendation as I have benefited from focused deep work.

Here’s where I feel the need for a new tactic. I often find myself wanting to work on multiple things in a day, each of which holds equal value to me. I tend to work on multiple personal projects, which don’t come to fruition for a long time. And I often find it difficult to stay motivated, or even when motivated, stay focused on executing these multiple simultaneous plans. I wouldn’t consider it as task switching, because I think that on a good day, I am able to dedicate a few hours of deep focus to each of these separate projects. But that is where the issue lies. I am able to only do it on a few good days. On most days, I get burnt out. 

Maybe my strategy is flawed. Maybe it is impossible to work on multiple projects with equal dedication. But the fact of the matter is that others have done it, so it must be possible. I am also very young and full of energy. Surely there is a better way to divert my cognitive resources effectively?

If the brain is a sponge, there should be a way to drain it (other than just a good night’s sleep) at will so that it is ready for more. I’ll keep you posted if I come across something helpful.