Explanation
An experiential interpretation of attention
What This Project Is
It is an experiential attempt to translate attention into a visible system. Attention here is not an on-off switch, but a limited resource that can be consumed, hijacked, and forced to shift.
Attention Is Not Effort
Difficulty focusing is often mistaken for a lack of effort.
This project separates attention from motivation or discipline. Even with intention and effort, the resources required to maintain focus can still run out.
Focus depletion here reflects a commonly misunderstood experience: trying hard does not always mean being able to stay engaged.
Different Actions, Different Costs
Each interaction drains or restores attention in its own way.
Distraction Bubbles
Instant reward appears suddenly and pulls attention away from the current task.
Floating Prompts
External cues interrupt focus and suggest an alternative direction.
Task Switching
Switching feels intentional, but re-entering focus still costs attention.
Task Completion
Different tasks offer clear targets to click, producing brief moments of reward.
Visual Instability at Low Focus
When attention is depleted, everything becomes harder to hold.
The blurriness of the screen represents a state where focus is already fragile.
Why Dopamine Accumulates
Instant reward often feels easier to pursue than long-term goals.
Dopamine here represents immediate feedback. Tasks with quick rewards become more attractive, yet they also increase the likelihood of attention being diverted.
