In 1927, Bluma Zeigarnik identified that we remember incomplete events much more readily than ones we've completed.
In fact, our minds quickly forget finished tasks.
This is the Zeigarnik effect.
These 5 ideas from her will change the way you learn + work: 🧵👇
Bluma Zeigarnik was a Russian psychologist.
She noticed how waiters kept track of complex orders, but struggled to recall them once they were complete.
Our short-term memory has limited capacity.
But interruptions create cognitive tension that keeps our memories fresh.
Idea #1: We CAN stop procrastinating
Most people think procrastination is about not completing tasks.
It’s actually about not starting them.
Zeigarnik recognises that by starting a task it’s on our mind.
The cognitive unease draws us back to it.
So, take an easy first step.
Idea #2: We read more where there's suspense.
Cliffhangers work because:
• They leave us wanting more
• The story sticks in our mind
• The pause keeps us interested
Rather than sharing everything at once in our writing, we can interrupt the reader + entice them to read on.
Idea #3: We are happier when we don't leave difficult tasks hanging.
Incomplete tasks can lead to intrusive thoughts and anxiety.
Completing them unlocks:
• Self-confidence
• Self-esteem
• A sense of accomplishment
The Zeigarnik effect motivates us to complete tasks.
Idea #4: We study better with breaks.
The easiest way to do this?
Don't revise in long cramming sessions.
I once stayed up all night before an exam + then pretty much remembered nothing the next day.
I failed the exam.
Studying in increments makes it more memorable.
Idea #5: We should design education in shorter chunks.
Finally, this is advice that would benefit us all.
Our learners don't do better when we give them a 45 minute lecture with no interruptions.
They do better when we break it up.
• Shift their focus
• Engage them
• Pause
TL;DR - 5 ideas from Zeigarnik that will change the way you learn + work
• #1: We CAN stop procrastinating
• #2: We read more with cliffhangers
• #3: We are happier when we complete tasks
• #4: We study better with breaks
• #5: We should design teaching in chunks
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