Do you want to be more productive and less stressed? If so, try your hand at single tasking — focusing on one thing at a time. Although you may think that multitasking helps you get more done, studies show is that you simply can’t perform two or more complex tasks simultaneously. It just makes your poor brain switch frantically back and forth from one task to the other, leaving you feeling drained and frazzled.
What’s more, your work may end up being subpar and riddled with errors. Single tasking helps prevent those taxing brain switches and hones your focus and attention. Here’s a strategy that will help you tend to one task at a time.
Try this today
First, make a list of your top three to-dos, and decide which you want to get done first. Block out time for each.
Then, put your smartphone (and smartwatch!) away in a bag or drawer. Having them in view can be a distraction, particularly since they also provide access to text messages, your favorite shopping websites, social media platforms, weather alerts and so much else.
Next, if you have multiple browser tabs open on your computer, close all but the one that’s essential to your task — or close them all. Ditto for your email and IM. Turn off all notifications. If you’re prone to checking your social media feeds often, consider installing software or applications that block sites for any duration you choose.
Find a quiet, windowless space where you can focus, or close your blinds to avoid distractions.
Communicate to any potential interrupters (clients, bosses, friends, etc.) that you’ll be unavailable for a period of time. Then set a timer and focus on the task at hand.
When the timer goes off, take a five-minute break, ideally outside.
Return to your workspace and check email and phone messages to make sure the world hasn’t fallen apart without you. (Chances are it hasn’t, though your coworker may tell you otherwise.)
