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Distraction Quote by Clay Shirky

“If someone around you is multitasking, you pick up distraction like second-hand smoke.” quote by Clay Shirky
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“If someone around you is multitasking, you pick up distraction like second-hand smoke.”

Clay Shirky

About This Quote

Source Speech: TED Talk, 2010

Multitasking spreads distraction like smoke, contaminating focus.

In simple terms: Multitasking creates distraction.

Key Takeaway

Limit multitasking.

Themes

focus productivity distraction

Mood

cautious analytical

Type

advice reflective

When to use this quote

  • office
  • study
  • digital environments

Key Concepts

attention economy cognitive load

Questions to Reflect On

  • What can you do to protect focus?
  • When is multitasking acceptable?
A Different Perspective

Some tasks truly require simultaneous attention.

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