Turning Off Your Autopilot Mode | Samuel Sperl | TEDxSaintAndrewsSchool

Learning to Notice Autopilot

Samuel Sperl uses learning the video game League of Legends to explain how familiar routines can run on “autopilot.” Once we learn a task, we often do it with less conscious attention. This can make everyday activities easier, but it may also narrow our awareness and keep us from noticing new details or opportunities to improve.

Becoming more attentive can help us feel more engaged in daily life and better able to learn and grow.

Strategies to Switch Off Autopilot

• Bring attention to your senses. Notice what you can see, hear, feel, smell, and, if relevant, taste—including details you might normally overlook.
• Question your awareness. Ask yourself whether you’re fully present and consciously choosing what you’re doing.
• Change your perspective. Look at familiar activities in a new way instead of assuming there’s nothing more to notice or learn.
• Use deliberate attention to improve. As with video games, don’t assume you’ve mastered something. Pay attention to how you’re doing and where you could improve.

Presenter and Sources

• Presenter: Samuel Sperl
• YouTube channel: Transcribed as “Tiff Row” in the subtitles
• Event: TEDxSaintAndrewsSchool