Don’t Multitask, Single Task!
What is Single-tasking?
Single-tasking is the process of focusing on one task with as few distractions as possible. Single-tasking is a method that is used to boost productivity and relieve stress at work. It came about after a number of studies were conducted demonstrating how multitasking makes employees less productive.
Scientific Studies Disprove Multitasking
An experiment was done at Michigan State University where they had students take a basic IQ test on a computer but programmed interruptions into the test. Some of the interruptions included pop-ups or required students to enter a code to continue the test. The results showed that even with 3 second interruptions, the students made double the errors during the test (Lee, 2014).
Furthermore, at Ohio State University researchers discovered that consuming two or more kinds of media results in loss of cognitive function in both tasks such as reading and watching TV.
There was also a study done at The University of Utah showing how relatively simple tasks such as driving while talking on the phone diminish cognitive ability. Those studied, were much more likely to miss billboards and react slower to dangerous traffic patterns than those who were only driving. The results reported were likened to impair drivers just as much as driving under the influence of alcohol.
Tips to Single-tasking
The good news about single-tasking is that it is simple. In fact, minimalism actually plays a large role in single-tasking. True single-taskers need less because they’re focusing on less at one time. Therefore, the following tips will not only make our lives more productive but they will de-clutter them as well.
1) Make a to do list. This sounds easier than it is because we all make lists. A good list has numbered objectives in order of priority. This small amount of organization will propel you and your organization forward.
2) Schedule a time to check your email. Employees complain the most about the onslaught of never-ending emails. In order to stay focused and keep the onslaught at bay, schedule a time to each hour to check your messages.
3) Turn off your phone or leave it at home. For some employees, this may be impossible due to working conditions but the rule still applies when it comes to simplicity. If a phone is a must-have then try to turn off as many notifications as you can. Fewer notifications means fewer distractions and checking your phone every time someone posts a picture of their iguana is reducing your productivity.
These are a just a few suggestions that can be modified to fit your personal lifestyle. The most important thing to do first is recognizing that you are multitasking so that you can counteract the effects. It will take practice and vigilance to master this new skill but less stress and more productivity await those who do.
Citation: Lee, K. The science of single-tasking: how focus unlocks extreme productivity. (Oct.2015) Retrieved from https://open.buffer.com/single-tasking/.
