Stress can be reduced by focusing on other activities.

Stress (caused by focus anyway) can be alleviated by activating other brain systems unrelated to conscious thought (prefrontal cortex). Taking a walk, listening to something, etc activate and focus unrelated systems, which help shut off overactivity in the PFC.rR1 Play improves mental performance.rM4. Organizing tasks may help.


  1. Greg McKeown, Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less, First Edition (New York: Crown Business, 2014). (See notes.)

  2. David Rock, Your Brain at Work: Strategies for Overcoming Distraction, Regaining Focus, and Working Smarter All Day Long, 1st ed (New York: Harper Business, 2009). (See notes.)