In a recent LinkedIn post, Dan Sherrard-Smith delves into a concerning societal trend: the apparent decline in collective IQ after a century of steady increase. He posits that while previous generations benefited from improvements in food, education, and healthcare, leading to cognitive gains, a reversal has occurred over the past two decades, particularly in developed nations. Sherrard-Smith attributes this shift to increased screen time, a negative perception of boredom, and a constant need for dopamine hits driven by digital engagement.
Societal Shifts and Cognitive Decline
Dan Sherrard-Smith highlights that for a century, societal advancements fostered cognitive growth. However, he observes a significant change beginning around 20 years ago. According to Sherrard-Smith:
“For 100 years, IQ climbed with each generation. Now ➡️ our collective IQ is falling.”
He elaborates on the factors contributing to this decline, suggesting that the modern environment, characterized by constant digital stimulation, may be hindering deep thinking. This societal shift, he argues, has profound implications, especially for entrepreneurs.
Implications for Founders and Business Leaders
The post then pivots to discuss the specific challenges this trend presents for founders. Sherrard-Smith points out the common pitfalls of modern business practices, where time is often consumed by seemingly productive, yet ultimately less impactful, activities. He critiques the prevalence of endless “coffee chats” and sales calls that yield little, alongside time-consuming travel to events, all while founders might be distracted by social media.
As Dan Sherrard-Smith notes:
“Brilliant people whose lives are run by notifications instead of building & growing businesses that can change the world.”
He admits to being caught in this trap himself, having previously filled his schedule with non-priority tasks. However, Sherrard-Smith shares the strategies he has implemented to counteract this trend and reclaim focus.
Strategies for Reclaiming Deep Thinking
To combat the pervasive distractions and foster deep thinking, Dan Sherrard-Smith outlines four key practices that have aided him. These include:
- Regular physical exercise, which he humorously relates to playing Padel.
- Time blocking for critical marketing tasks, specifically mentioning content creation.
- Dedication of specific time slots for client work.
- Consciously creating unstructured space within his diary.
Sherrard-Smith emphasizes the initial discomfort of leaving empty space in one’s schedule but underscores its necessity. He argues that the ability to think deeply is fundamental to innovation and building distinct businesses.
The Limits of AI and the Importance of Human Cognition
Furthering his argument, Dan Sherrard-Smith cautions against over-reliance on artificial intelligence, suggesting that these tools can only supplement, not replace, fundamental human cognitive abilities. He poses a direct question to his audience, prompting reflection on their own practices:
“So, I wonder… When did you last sit with a difficult problem for 30 uninterrupted minutes?”
This question serves as a call to action, encouraging business leaders and founders to re-evaluate their engagement with distractions and to prioritize the deep, focused thinking required for true innovation and growth. The article concludes by acknowledging Jean Barrere for inspiring these thoughts and referencing Chardin’s painting, ‘The Young Draughtsman,’ as a visual metaphor for focused intellectual pursuit.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Dan Sherrard-Smith on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on February 15, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →