Science Says Monotasking - Not Multitasking - Is the Secret to Getting Things Done.
Here Are 8 Ways to Do It
Research confirms that monotasking--and not multitasking--is the secret to getting things done.
BY AMY VETTER
You may think you can do everything right now, but you can't-and you shouldn't.
Many studies have shed light on the downside of multitasking--trying to juggle multiple tasks at one time.
One often cited study from Stanford University found that people who multitask are more easily distracted,
less productive, score lower on tests for recalling information, and make more errors.
The reason is quite simple: the brain is not designed to work on multiple initiatives at one time. So, instead
of multitasking, you should focus on monotasking--where you focus on only one initiative at a time. This
approach not only cuts down on silly mental errors, but can help unleash your creativity and production
since you can funnel more attention and energy to the task at hand.
I admit it can be tough to monotask since we are bombarded everyday with so many distractions and
interruptions, like emails, phone calls, social media notifications and breaking news! Plus, it seems that
everything needs to be done as soon as possible.
But I have found that adopting more monotasking has made me more efficient (I don't have to work longer
hours or at home), I make fewer mistakes, and I actually end up accomplishing more at the end of the work
week.
How can you break the habit of multitasking? Much of it revolves around better time management and
blocking distractions. I've found the following 8 strategies have helped me embrace more monotasking and
keep me mindful of focusing only on the work I'm doing at any moment.
1. List your top two priorities for the day.
Start by making a list of your top priorities. Then identify your top two priorities for the day and make sure
you accomplish them above all else. Giving the most important tasks your brain's prime time will help you
be more attentive. I am old school in how I do this--I still use Post-Its--but I start one to three items that have
to get done that day. This way I know what I can de-prioritize and only get to it if I find myself with extra
time.
2. Block time on your calendar.
Create defined times during the day to complete your top two priorities as well as check and respond to
emails. I have time blocked on my calendar to get these things done. The important part about blocking
time is respecting it. Just because that time is blocked on your calendar for your own work does not mean
you can compromise it by meeting with someone else who is begging for your time. It needs to be sacred to
you.
3. Use Slack to work with your team.
Slack has truly changed my life. It has eliminated a huge amount of back-and-forth emails that were
distracting or created more work. With Slack, everyone is able to collaborate, and other people can take
care of work that needs to be done without me getting involved. It also eliminates the "cc" emails because I
can go into Slack anytime and check on the work getting done and provide my input where necessary.
4. Use software to block social media.
I typically turn off notifications on my computer so that I don't get distracted. Need help? There is software
that can block out designated sites for a specific period of time, such as Anti-Social, Cold Turkey, and
Freedom.
5. Stop instantly responding to messages.
Sometimes I put my phone where I can't see it, or turn off the ringer and set to "do not disturb." Just
because someone reaches out to you doesn't require you to respond immediately (unless it's a family
emergency).
6. Close your eyes for two minutes.
If you lose focus or your mind wanders, set an alarm on your phone for two minutes and close your eyes. It
will help settle you down and then the alarm will go off to let you know to get back to it.
7. Pace yourself by creating timed work and rest intervals.
Set a timer for five or 10 minutes and commit to focusing on your assignment for that amount of time.
Afterwards, take a small break, like walking around or going outside for some fresh air, and then reset the
timer for another five to 10 minutes. This back and forth between work and rest helps to establish a rhythm
where your brain knows when it's time to work and when it's time to rest.
8. Listen to music that energizes you or helps you focus.
Listening to classical music, nature sounds, or meditation music can help calm your mind and center your
attention. For me, when I need to pick up my energy, I turn on rock, hip hop, or dance music to get my
blood flowing and motivated to take on my next task.
In the fast-paced daily world of business, ping-ponging between tasks during the day has become the
norm. But if you want to work better (and smarter) and see the results of your efforts then monotasking is
the right approach. Remember it's not how much you do that matters, but rather how well you do it, and
what you can actually say you accomplished at day's end.