Multitasking has become our norm and is expected…Does that make it right or the best thing for us to do? Many think we are more productive because we are able to tackle more items at once. However, as a result, our brains become overloaded and can “blank out” by shutting out other stimuli or even forgetting where we were or what we were working on, overlooking the “urgents” that may have been on our plate.
Here are some things I have done and had others share with me to consider:
- If it’s critical, needs detail and accuracy, shut off the emails, texts, phone etc. Set aside a block of time to allow yourself just that one project to do, giving it the attention it needs.
- Prioritize. Start each day with a clear plan or priorities.
- Keep an eye on the big picture. Know what can be allowed in, and get rid of some of the time suckers that do not matter, or put the project on the low priority list for when time allows.
- Focus on the task at hand.
- Group similar things. It may be surprising, but you actually get more done by doing all like things together. IE: You can do so much more when you do all emails at once, then move onto a project.
Know that you cannot do it all, we all have limitations, but do what you do the best you can.
