Multitasking is a seemingly positive trait that many applaud. It supposedly helps us do a lot of different things simultaneously. However, the opposite is the reality for many. In fact, we rarely finish our most essential tasks for the day when we make multitasking a habit. Instead, we leave a trail of unfinished tasks in our wake. Welcome to the multitasking trap where uncompleted tasks flourish. 

Can Natural Multitaskers Have It All?

Multitasking is my default. I was that student reading a novel under her desk as the teacher droned on in class who still got good grades. I used to partially listen to conversations with others as my mind thought of something else. I could carry on a good conversation while my mind is miles away. So, did I have the best of both worlds? In hindsight, I do not believe I did. I might have spent less time studying because of the knowledge already gained in class if I focused in class. Also, I might have been a better communicator if I had immersed myself fully in the conversation at hand.

Why Multitasking Is Misleading

Multitasking can become a dangerous cycle of hopping between only superficially important tasks without reaching completion. Ultimately, you fail to achieve your most important goals. The world hails us as superwomen doing a lot more than the average person. However, many women are hanging on by the thread as they take on ever-increasing roles. Thus, exhaustion, overwhelm, and resentment becomes bedfellows as we try to do too many different things all at once. What if we do the opposite?

When we multitask, we don’t give our brains time to process what is happening around us. So, we jump from one thing to the next but never really let it sink in. Thus, we become susceptible to distractions and forgetfulness.

Is Monotasking Better?

Monotasking is the opposite of multitasking. It means focusing on only one thing at a time instead of doing many tasks at once. Monotasking is an effective way of increasing productivity that results in better use of your time throughout the day.

Unfortunately, monotasking is almost intuitively foreign to mothers. We are constantly juggling so many things that we fall into multitasking by default. Then, we get more frazzled as we engage in this eternal dance. Multitasking has become a curse and a trap that keeps us in constant motion no matter how drained we get. This type of continuous motion is not sustainable – something has got to give eventually. How can one escape the multitasking trap that is the default for so many people?

Making The Shift To Monotasking

It is not an easy feat to quit multitasking if it is your default. In fact, the biggest downside to monotasking is that it can be difficult at first! However, you will come to see why so many people love it. I have compiled a list for you to start with.

• Reprogram your thinking 

Stop thinking of it as giving up when you focus on one task. Instead, think of monotasking as a way to boost productivity by eliminating distractions and tackling things more quickly.

• Start right

 List things you can do in under three minutes and complete them as soon as possible. You will build momentum for your day, too! 

• Timebox 

Create designated timeslots for different activities throughout your week. For example, Mondays and Wednesdays might be your “email days.” This way, you can focus on them entirely with no distractions!

• Leverage technology

Minimize distractions by using apps like Forest or Cold Turkey. Flow is my favorite because of its simplicity and sleek interface.

• Tame your distractions

Try keeping your phone in another room when you’re doing essential tasks. Turn off notifications on your computer and phone if you are prone to checking them frequently. This way, you can focus on important work without unnecessary distractions.

•  Schedule your “toxic time-wasters”

Create designated timeslots for time-wasters like checking social media. That way, you can get them out of the way and still feel like you’ve accomplished something during your day.

• Take breaks

 You could try short bursts of exercise to boost your energy and focus when you get back to work. This way, you’ll get a little physical activity while still managing to stay on task for the rest of the day. When it’s time for a break, try something not work-related. Going for a stroll outdoors or reading something for pleasure are good ideas.

• Commit to a single task at a time 

Create designated timeslots for different activities throughout your week. For example, Mondays and Wednesdays might be your “email days.” This way, you can focus on them entirely with no distractions!

• Use a timer 

Set a timer for the amount of focused work you want to do. Then, focus on it until your alarm goes off or the timer runs out. This way, you’ll know exactly how long you need to stay focused without losing track of time. The popular Pomodoro technique helps stay on track, and tech tools like Flow make it effortless.

• Don’t let your mind wander

When you’re working on something, don’t let your mind wander. It’s natural to want to move from one thing to another when we have a lot of “open loops” in the back of our minds. So, nip that in the bud.

Multitasking can mess with your well-being and productivity. Therefore, make it a practice to focus on a single task at a time. Of course, it might take time to make the transition entirely. So, be patient with yourself. What are your favorite tools and tips for making this shift from multitasking? Could you share them in the comments below?