Do you multitask?
We all have demands on our time and often things are coming at us from more than one direction. Yes, maybe you can walk and chew gum at the same time, but when you are trying to do more than one cognitive task at a time, you’re attempting to multitask.
Why multitasking doesn’t work
Perhaps you have seen “the ability to multitask” as a desired quality on a job description. Some people view it as a strength to be able to handle more than one task at a time. However, in reality, when we multitask, as defined above, we are asking our mind to shift back and forth between tasks and therefore aren’t giving either one our full attention. When that happens, it takes longer to complete both tasks than it would if you focused on one or the other. Your chance of errors goes up, your stress level increases, and your ability to learn and remember things goes down.
How to overcome the myth of multitasking
When you have more than one task to complete, what is the best strategy for getting them both finished?
In this episode of “Keeping You Organized”, a podcast by national office supply and organizing product company, Smead, Debbie shares specific details on these five strategies to avoid multitasking and get more done in less time:
- Focus
- Optimize Your Schedule
- Minimize Distraction
- Manage Interruptions
- Say “No”.
Whether it is being physically organized so there aren’t distractions, setting a timer to establish boundaries, or by practicing self-care or learning how to say “no”, these strategies will help you to be more focused and complete your priority work… one cognitive task at a time.
If multitasking is getting in the way of your productivity or you would like to be more organized and productive at work or at home, contact us to learn more about how we can be a resource to you.
