Information Overload Syndrome: How To Overcome It In 3 Easy Steps
By Michael Lee

Have you ever experienced the phenomenon known as information overload syndrome? If you have sat down for an academic lecture for three hours straight or have been stuck in a meeting full of facts, figures and who knows what - then yes - you probably have experienced this phenomenon.

To say it's unpleasant is already an understatement. You don't need the extra stress or the migraines, thank you very much!

So if you want to learn how to overcome information overload syndrome, here's how!

Step 1: Take A Break.

You got to know when to stop. Stop receiving information when you feel a headache coming and when you can't understand what's being said anymore.

If you're reading a book or an article from the Internet, then it's easy to pace yourself, especially if you know how to speed read. However, most of the time, people experience information overload syndrome when other people are talking.

Some teachers or guest speakers don't realize just how dizzying all their presentations can get; so if you can, leave the room for a little bit. Wash your face with cold water and give your mind a few minutes to recharge before going back in.

Step 2: Fake It.

So you're sitting in class while your professor prattles on and on about mathematical theorems. Your mind is ready to burst and yet, you can't risk missing a single detail. What do you do?

Well, if it's allowed, why don't you record the lecture? Not everyone can absorb all those figures in such a short (or even stretched) amount of time. Some students make use of a tape recorder, but a video camera is still the best way for you to re-live a lecture.

Step 3: Prioritize.

Information overload syndrome can also result from your own last-minute decisions. It might be second nature to you; but if you want to avoid unnecessary headaches and stress, avoid cramming every single time there's a test or a presentation due.

Learn to prepare early and prioritize. Do what needs to be done first instead of choking your mind with all sorts of unrelated information when you realize that there's still so much to learn and so little time.

Organize your priorities and plan which materials you'll go through first to fulfill your objectives. Focus on the most important one first before going to the next one in priority.

Information overload syndrome is not life threatening, but it can be extremely limiting. Don't let yourself be squashed by something that could have been easily avoided. The trick here is to know when to stop, be creative in taking in information and preparedness.