What Cognitive Load Really Is

Cognitive load is the hidden weight of open loops: unfinished tasks, vague priorities, unclear plans, and constant context switching. When load is high, your thinking becomes reactive and shallow even if you’re working hard.

Three Habits That Lower Load Fast

• Write down every open loop in one place so your brain stops rehearsing it.
• Choose one 'next action' per project so progress is frictionless.
• Batch admin tasks into a single window instead of scattering them throughout the day.

Why Clarity Improves Output

When your mind isn’t managing chaos, it can do higher-level work: reasoning, creativity, and problem-solving. Productivity improves as a byproduct of mental order.