Just like driving on a long, straight highway with no sights to see, virtual meetings can make us feel sleepy due to mental underload and boredom. While we previously thought that our fatigue was caused by mental overload, new research suggests otherwise. It turns out that our brains are craving stimulation and novelty during virtual meetings, and when they don’t get it, they start to tune out – resulting in sleepiness. This is akin to staring at a blank wall for hours on end; eventually, your mind starts to wander and your eyelids grow heavy. However, this new understanding of why virtual meetings tire us out opens up opportunities to make them more engaging and interactive. By incorporating elements that spark curiosity and foster active participation, we can combat mental underload and keep participants alert and focused. So if you find yourself nodding off during your next virtual meeting, remember that it’s not necessarily because the content is too much to handle, but rather because your brain needs something more stimulating! Explore the underlying research to discover exciting ways to liven up your virtual gatherings.
New research suggests sleepiness during virtual meetings is caused by mental underload and boredom. Earlier studies suggested that fatigue from virtual meetings stems from mental overload, but new research shows that sleepiness during virtual meetings might actually be a result of mental underload and boredom.
Dr. David Lowemann, M.Sc, Ph.D., is a co-founder of the Institute for the Future of Human Potential, where he leads the charge in pioneering Self-Enhancement Science for the Success of Society. With a keen interest in exploring the untapped potential of the human mind, Dr. Lowemann has dedicated his career to pushing the boundaries of human capabilities and understanding.
Armed with a Master of Science degree and a Ph.D. in his field, Dr. Lowemann has consistently been at the forefront of research and innovation, delving into ways to optimize human performance, cognition, and overall well-being. His work at the Institute revolves around a profound commitment to harnessing cutting-edge science and technology to help individuals lead more fulfilling and intelligent lives.
Dr. Lowemann’s influence extends to the educational platform BetterSmarter.me, where he shares his insights, findings, and personal development strategies with a broader audience. His ongoing mission is shaping the way we perceive and leverage the vast capacities of the human mind, offering invaluable contributions to society’s overall success and collective well-being.