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Overloaded Circuits: Why Smart People Underperform (HBR OnPoint Enhanced Edition)
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Overloaded Circuits: Why Smart People Underperform (HBR OnPoint Enhanced Edition) Customer Reviews
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Introduction into attention deficit trait or brain overloading
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Edward M. Hallowell is a psychiatrist and the founder of the Hallowell Center for Cognitive and Emotional Heat in Sudbury, Massachusetts. He is the author of several books. This article was published in the January 2005-issue of Harvard Business Review.
The author introduces a neurological phenomenon (attention deficit trait or ADT) which is caused by brain overload and which he believes is now epidemic in organizations. It is brought on by the demands on our time and attention that have exploded over the past two decades. In this article Hallowell offers an analysis of the origins of ADT and suggestions to manage it. First, he provides a short introduction into attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADD). Unlike attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADD), a neurological order that also has a genetic component, ADT springs entirely from the environment. Hallowell then continues with a short section on the brain. "... studies have shown that as the human brain is asked to process dizzying amounts of data, its ability to solve problem flexibly and creatively declines and the number of mistakes increases." So how can we manage ADT? "ADT can be controlled only by creatively engineering one's environment and one's emotional and physical health." Hallowell introduces several preventative measures which can help executives control their symptoms of ADT. The article is completed with a short section on what leaders can do to counteract ADT and harness employee brainpower. Suggestions are: reduction in the number of overlapping projects and initiatives; reward employees that focus and say "no" to overloading; review the number of support staff within their organization; invest in amenities that contribute to a positive atmosphere; and matching employees' skills to tasks. However, the author believes that the most critical step to addressing the problem of ADT is to name it.
Yes, I do like this article. It discusses a very real, unaddressed issue within modern organizations. I agree with the author in that organizations which are able to address attention deficit trait will prosper through "more productive, well-balanced, and intelligent work environments." There is a useful short sidebar that provides bullet-points to control ADT in general, at work, and when you feel overwhelmed. It is important to note that management of ADT is about more than just better time management by executives and the author introduces some useful suggestions. Highly recommended to (senior) executives, HR-personnel, and other people feeling the pressure in modern organizations.
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