Why Multitasking is Scrambling Your Brain
Hint: You’re awful at it
Once, I was an amazing multitasker. I answered questions, checked emails, and worked through my daily projects at the same time. However, I was hurting my productivity because my brain had to adjust to each task. I was spreading my attention, so my work was less in-depth. I would sometimes even make silly errors. All that back and forth was stressful.
Multitasking: I was awful at it.
The Science Behind Multitasking
Did you know your brain can’t process two tasks at the same time? Scientists and psychologists have examined task-switching costs through brain imaging and observational studies. They determined the following:
We err more when multitasking because unrelated information gets mixed in. For example, do you ever include a random word in an email from a conversation you’re having at the same time?
Splitting our focus worsens mindfulness and concentration. Ever notice how you miss critical information from a conversation if you’re scrolling through your phone?
By multitasking, we hinder our creativity and concentration even when we are working on a single task.
Multitasking: It’s Awful
Once I learned how awful multitasking is, I started paying attention to my daily routine. I logged instances of multitasking and realized I was doing it a lot. Here’s an example:
I was distracted and checked messages while watching TV. I answered questions, reviewed a forecast, and responded to emails simultaneously. And my quick responses exacerbated the problem by inviting a slew of follow-ups.
At the end of the day, although I was a self-proclaimed multitasker, I was awful at it.
How to Reduce Multitasking
I instilled guidelines to limit multitasking.
- I silenced email and phone notifications and check them once every half hour. By extending my response time, I reduced the expectation of an immediate turnaround.
- I set working windows for each of my tasks to avoid distractions.
- When my concentration wavers, I go for a walk or switch to my next task.
Conclusion
Despite what you believe, you’re awful at multitasking. Your brain is simply not built for it. Instead, you’re harming your concentration and emotional wellbeing.
Once I limited multitasking, I became more present, creative, and a quicker problem solver. I listen more attentively and concentrate on tasks for longer periods of time, leading to better quality work.
