Making the switch from multitasking to monotasking can lead to a huge improvement in your stress levels. I used to be a huge proponent of multitasking, believing I could do it all, but I was lying to myself. Trying to do as much as possible all at once did not make me more efficient. Monotasking leads to better outcomes, and it shifts your outlook on how you divide your energy. This can be a major game changer for all of you who are trying to cram as much as possible into each day.
Debunking The Efficiency Fallacy
For many individuals, multitasking is a way of life. But it can lead to major burnout. Multitasking divides your focus. Even though it may seem like you are getting more done in a chunk of time, odds are, it took you longer and you compromised the quality of your work. By not focusing on just one task at a time, you are not able to concentrate and do deep cognitive work. Many think multitasking can reduce stress because you get more done in less time. Subconsciously, it is affecting your stress levels. The doubt is there. Did you miss something? Is the response you gave communicating what you are trying to? Oh well, moving on, there’s still a pile of tasks to do.
Of greater concern is when attempting to multitask puts you, and others, in danger. A great example of this is people trying to text while driving. We should all know by now that it is dangerous. But many think they can juggle these tasks simultaneously, and sometimes they pile on other things too like smoking, eating, or putting on makeup. But the truth is, you are endangering yourself and everyone else on the road at that moment.
Monotasking Benefits
An alternative in behaviour to improve your overall well-being is monotasking. It is another form of being mindful. It is about focusing your attention on one task at a time instead of hopping from one to the next, and back again. By giving yourself the space to take a deeper dive into things, you can actually be more productive and create better work. In fact, odds are you will also enjoy the process more. Monotasking allows you to discover a little awe, even in the mundane.
In a way, monotasking forces you to slow down. The irony is that since I’ve started incorporating it into my life, I actually have more time on my hands. Part of that does stem from the fact that monotasking has forced me to optimize my energy levels. I have figured out when I am most productive and focus on key achievements for the day to execute during that time. Then, by managing my energy reserves for the balance of the day, I can tackle things one-at-a-time. This allows me to also decide if some tasks can be delegated or are really not necessary. This reduces stress! When I was too busy trying to multitask everything on my to-do list, I didn’t have the head space to take a break. Now, every day has down time to recharge and regroup.
When you monotask, you also open up the window to allow flow to come into your life. Flow is often difficult to achieve if you are stressed, but when you are enjoying yourself, you can often go down this path. By monotasking activities that make you feel good, you increase the likelihood of reaching this state. If you have multiple stimuli dividing your attention, odds are low you can get there.
Tips To Incorporate Monotasking
The first step to start monotasking is to make a conscious choice to stop multitasking. The next step is to identify your tasks and responsibilities. Then prioritize based on importance and what you are capable of taking on. Much like setting up a routine, you need to make sure that you remain flexible and are compassionate with yourself if you struggle to make the switch. Time blocking can also be a great tool to help you adjust your behaviour. This is a tool that is used to break the day’s schedule into manageable chunks, both at a professional and personal level.
Suggestions to try monotasking:
When eating a meal or drinking a beverage
Focus on what you are consuming. Think of how it was prepared. Use your senses to explore its qualities. Appreciate how it will nourish your body.
Driving
Eliminate the distractions and remind yourself of how to drive safely. If you’re struggling to focus, turning off phone notifications can help prioritize the task at hand.
Dedicated work time
Many of us are guilty of responding to each message we receive, when we get it. And at work it is no different. The solution? Turn notifications off, check your messages at scheduled times, and time block responses.
Going for a walk
Listening to music can enhance your walk as long as it doesn’t detract from you taking in your surroundings. Of concern are distracted walkers who focus on their screens. I don’t know how many times I’ve seen people busy scrolling, and they don’t realize they are walking into an intersection.
Have a real conversation
When meeting up with people, focus on building human connections with the people that want to spend time with you.
What monotask has been a game changer for you?
Although multitasking has become the norm for most of us, taking the time to slow down and monotask will yield more rewards. It may seem like you are going to fall behind, but what really happens is that you begin to prioritize better, and you reframe what is important to you. By focusing on one task at a time, you can improve the quality of your work, and reduce your stress levels. Focus is rare these days, become someone who can be resilient. Start with one task this week, then add another. Changing our behaviour is hard, but if you do subtle shifts, you can start to make improvements.
IMAGE CREDIT: Unsplash | Erik Hansman.