When you’ve got a lot on your plate, the first thing many of think of is- multi-tasking. We feel like we have to do more, faster. But in fact, the opposite is true. When we multi-task, we do more but less at the same time because we are overwhelmed and doing a poor job. If we can learn to single-task and prioritize these tasks, than we can work more effectively! And we will have time for what really matters- you!
In yesterday’s post, I shared with you why it’s better to concentrate on just one thing at work if you want to feel less stressed out and happier. I gave you a few examples of the benefits of single-tasking.
Today, I’d like to elaborate on that a bit. Multi-tasking truly is becoming an epidemic in our society that’s causing stress, lost productivity, and less quality work, among other issues. This isn’t just my opinion. Research shows that there are dangers of multi-tasking. Let’s take a look at some of the ways this pressure to do more in less time can hurt you, both physically and mentally.
Increased Distractibility
It’s been demonstrated that people who multi-task the most are actually more distractible than those who do so less frequently. It’s believed that the constant rapid switching from task to task your brain must engage in through multi-tasking can lead to difficulty in determining which interruptions are important and which aren’t. Therefore, you’ll find yourself being pulled away by any minor distraction.
More Physical Accidents
The distractibility of multi-tasking can have real, physically harmful results. When your mind is unable to concentrate fully on a task, it’s easy to make careless errors. In fact, one study of New York City pedestrians found a significant percentage of 1400 studied reported that they were using their cellphones when they were hit. Break the habit and make the effort to focus solely on one task at a time!
Impaired Memory
Quickly moving from one activity to another on a regular basis can lead to memory problems. The reason is because this constant switching disrupts short-term memory. It can also cause you to miss noticing details that might be important, damaging recall.
Potential Overeating
Many of us multi-task while eating. After all, it doesn’t take a lot of cognitive effort to eat, so why not get something else done at the same time? Did you know that making this type of multi-tasking a habit could be detrimental to your health? Your brain doesn’t always process just what and how much you’ve eaten. As a result, this makes it easy to not notice when you’re full and to overeat.
Damaged Relationships
Multi-tasking takes attention away from the person you’re with, which can be seen as hurtful and rude. It also makes it hard to communicate and focus. If you find yourself paying attention to other things while spending time with the people who are important to you, it’s a wise idea to try to limit that, especially if you truly value your relationships.
These are a few of the ways that multi-tasking can actually hurt you, as well as make you feel stressed out and overwhelmed. Keep these things in mind the next time you’re tempted to try to do more than one thing at a time.
