The Myth of Multitasking

 We see "them" everyday. Usually at the office. We stand aghast marveling at their aptitude and productivity. They can leap over 5 projects in a single bound with coffee in one hand, a tablet in the other, and a muffin in their mouth. They have it all together. So proficient. So productive. We try to be like them. We view multitasking as a badge of honor. Unfortunately it is an illusion. They appear to be multitasking but realistically it's just not possible. The word itself was originally coined for computers not humans. Yet somehow it secretly integrated itself into the business community and our lives. We gladly received it and embraced it much like a Trojan horse.  We all know how that story ended.


 Let's assume you have 5 tasks at hand. Can you focus on all 5 at once? Obviously not. Even if it were possible would you devote 20% of your focus to each one? Probably not. Our brain can only truly focus on one. When you attempt to multitask it usually doubles not only the time to accomplish it but the number of mistakes. And these mistakes you can't simply dismiss. More time is now required and more often than not more money.


The research is almost unanimous that people who chronically multitask show a huge range of deficits. And trying to do many things at once causes the brain to lose the capacity to focused thinking all together. It can even be dangerous such as texting or driving while on your cell phone. Even eating while driving. In some states all of these are illegal. Health factors come into play also. Multitasking causes stress. And who needs more of that? We can lose our concentration, attention, and memory. So what can we do?

 Now what is really happening in your brain is "multi switching". During the day we may be interrupted while performing one task and we must change our focus on to another. That is expected but in itself is difficult to do. It takes your brain a little time to readjust. Much like changing a camera lens for instance. We take one lens out and snap in another. Do we automatically start shooting right away? Of course not. We have to refocus. Your brain may need a few minutes to readjust but that’s much better than just blindly jumping on your next task right away. By focusing on that one project you will be much more productive than your "multitasking" co-workers.


 Here's some things you might do to help you focus totally on the task at hand. Get to work a little earlier and prioritize your work for the day. De-clutter your desk as well as your mind. Remove as many distractions as possible. If you're on a computer shut down unnecessary windows. Forget email, Twitter, Facebook or any other social media that would distract you. Interruptions may come but try to eliminate any you have control over.


 Thanks for taking the time to read this and I hope it at least encourages you to make some tweaks into your work habits. After clicking like please click share. Most likely you have friends that may benefit from this post. Thanks again and I look forward to your comments.