Researchers have identified a cognitive glitch known as jamais vu, the opposite of déjà vu, where familiar experiences suddenly seem alien. Triggered by repetition, it causes the brain to short-circuit, resulting in a feeling of unreality. This phenomenon, observed in everyday situations and even while driving, acts as a vital cognitive reset, directing attention away from repetitive tasks. Dr. Akira O'Connor and his team conducted experiments showing that this unsettling feeling is a signal to re-engage with the environment, ensuring cognitive flexibility and focus in our tasks.
Through two experiments, they found that jamais vu is a signal that something has become too automatic, forcing you to 'snap out' of the repetition.
The feeling of unreality is in fact a reality check...allowing us to direct our attention to wherever is needed rather than getting lost in repetitive tasks.
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