You’re sitting at your desk answering emails, answering phone calls, working on a report and eating a snack to keep yourself motivated. While you’re juggling multiple tasks and getting things done, you may not be boosting your productivity.
Many of us have fallen into this trap—believing that multitasking is the key to accomplishing more in less time. But here’s the truth: multi-tasking is a myth. Our brains are simply not wired to handle multiple tasks effectively. In fact, it may even be hurting your productivity. Recent studies have found that attempting to simultaneously handle multiple tasks causes our brains to switch focus rapidly, often resulting in decreased performance and a decline in the quality of our work.
So how can we break free from its grip and improve our productivity? We can single-task, where we focus our attention on one task rather than becoming drawn into another project or conversation. Let’s explore a couple of strategies.
Start with the Hardest First
One approach is to tackle the most challenging task on your to-do list right from the start. This method, aptly named hard mode, involves pushing through your resistance and completing the most daunting task. By conquering the most difficult hurdle, you set a positive tone for the rest of your day. Once the hardest part is behind you, other tasks feel comparatively easier, and you’ll gain momentum as you move forward.
Begin with the Easiest First
Alternatively, you can start with the easiest task on your list. By focusing on something you know you can complete quickly, you build confidence and generate momentum. This small win propels you forward and gets rid of that overwhelming feeling when you look at your to do list. The key is to leverage these initial successes to fuel your motivation and gradually tackle more challenging tasks.
Get Rid of Distractions
If you’re in the middle of a task and hear the distinct ding of an email coming in or see the subject line pop-up on your screen, you’re immediately distracted from the task at hand. By the time you read the email, respond and get back to that task, you’ve wasted valuable minutes and have to allow your brain to switch back into work mode. By turning off notifications, you can focus on completing a task and check your messages between projects. You can also set your phone aside, close any unnecessary tabs and close your office door.
Take Regular Breaks
The Pomodoro technique recommends working on one task for 25 minutes and then taking a five-minute break. Breaking your time down this way makes it more likely you’ll be able to focus on one task at a time throughout the day.
Keep Going
Completing one task, big or small, sets the stage for the next. Embrace the energy of your momentum and maintain a steady flow of progress. It’s a stark contrast to the fragmented efforts that come with multitasking, where each task receives a fraction of your attention and leaves you feeling drained.
By eliminating distractions and honing in on one objective, you’ll find yourself completing tasks more efficiently. And then, achieving better results.