Why Multi-Tasking is a Myth
Are you someone who prides yourself on being a master multitasker? Do you believe that juggling multiple tasks simultaneously is the key to being productive and successful? I'm here to burst that bubble and tell you that multitasking is a pervasive myth
Are you someone who prides yourself on being a master multitasker? Do you believe that juggling multiple tasks simultaneously is the key to being productive and successful? I'm here to burst that bubble and tell you that multitasking is a pervasive myth. The truth is, you can accomplish everything you want in life, but not all at once.
The term "multitasking" first appeared in a 1965 IBM paper describing the capabilities of the IBM System/350 computer. Since then, it has been erroneously applied to human tasks. But here's the thing - we are not computers. We are human beings with human brains, and when we attempt to do more than one thing at a time, we are putting a bottleneck on our productivity. Some psychiatrists have gone so far as to dub multitasking a "mythical activity" that people convince themselves they can do.
So what's the solution? Focus. Pure, unadulterated focus on one task at a time. This is the new elixir of productivity we should all strive to attain. And the benefits extend beyond just work - focusing on one thing at a time can improve your mental health and overall well-being.
Cal Newport's groundbreaking book "Deep Work" does an excellent job of articulating the importance of focus. He argues that reducing distractions, such as social media, can dramatically increase productivity. Newport also emphasizes the importance of being protective of our work time and using routines and errands to find solutions mentally.
When I was younger, I foolishly believed I could multitask with the best of them. I convinced myself and others that I was a multitasking machine, getting a ton of stuff done simultaneously. But in reality, I was doing myself and others a disservice. My work was sloppy, error-prone, and lacking in depth and quality. I was half-listening to podcasts, half-writing emails, half-responding to instant messages, and half-eating lunch simultaneously. It was a recipe for mediocrity.
It took me a few years to realize the error of my ways and start practicing focused work. I tried the Pomodoro Technique, which focuses on one task for set time intervals. While this can work in theory, it wasn't always practical for every type of job, especially those with unpredictable schedules and shifting priorities.
That's when I discovered "Deep Work," a revelation. Newport's philosophy of identifying and reducing shallow work to make more time for deep, focused work resonated deeply. I started implementing his recommendations, such as creating email filters to reduce inbox clutter and turning off notifications for instant messaging and email.
The results were astounding. Focusing on one thing at a time, even in the face of unforeseen emergencies, I could respond within a reasonable timeframe and still produce high-quality work. I realized multitasking was not only a myth but a detriment to my productivity and well-being.
So, if you want to be truly productive and successful in work and life, it's time to let go of the multitasking myth. Embrace focus, reduce distractions, and watch your productivity soar. Your brain (and your sanity) will thank you.