“Never half-ass two things, whole-ass one thing.” ~ Ron Swanson
I’ve said before that I think multitasking is a good thing. It can be beneficial for productivity.
However, I’ve noticed something lately.
I can’t multitask when I’m trying to listen to a webinar or teleseminar recording or do something that involves learning in some way. I have to keep stopping and rewinding to hear stuff I missed because I got caught up in the other thing(s) I was doing.
That wastes time because I’m redoing stuff.
And it pisses me off because I want to do 13 things at once. I wanna get a shit ton done!
But I’m not when I’m not focused on one thing at a time.
If you’re interested in the science behind this, check out this article on multitasking by the American Psychological Association.
Multitasking can work when you’re exercising and you listen to a recording. I get two things done that way.
It can work when you’re cleaning and catching up on recordings . . . still getting more done.
You can do it when you’re doing mindless tasks along with one that requires focus.
But you’re actually wasting time when you try and do multiple activities at once that need your full attention. Or . . . you’re half-assing two things.
Better to whole-ass one thing.
“Unfortunately, our brains just aren’t equipped for multitasking tasks that do require brainpower.” ~ Douglas Merrill, Forbes
So . . . are you a multitasker? Let me know in the comments!
And watch for the next post with some tips on how to stop multitasking.
{ 18 comments }
