Your 3-Step Guide to Single-Tasking

by Anishametra Saravanan

When was the last time you gave your full attention to, well, anything?

Even as I attempt to “focus” on writing, my screen boasts 8 wide-open browser tabs, a stray Microsoft Loop doc, and a desktop cluttered with files, folders, and documents all vying for my attention. All this despite the fact I’m trying to practice ‘single-tasking’ — aka doing one task at a time.

However, a few weeks back, I was gifted with a perspective that left me astounded: “Multitasking is a myth.“

Needless to say, I was taken aback by the sheer simplicity and profound truth embedded in those words. And as it turns out, what might seem like tackling multiple tasks simultaneously is, in reality, our brain frantically ping-ponging between them. Astonishingly, each of these mental switches takes a toll, with researchers saying you lose 20% of your overall productivity for each task you try to take on at once!

Now that you’re armed with the revelation that multitasking is a productivity-sapping illusion, let’s delve into a small, yet powerful, 3-step guide that will equip you with the tools to rebuild your focus, lower your stress levels, and even unlock a hidden wellspring of creativity through the art of single-tasking:

1. Distractions begone!

Our work environment wields surprising power over our productivity. The mere presence of multiple browser tabs can beckon the siren call of multitasking, and it’s not just browser tabs and notifications to blame. Even the everyday sight of your phone can draw you into the multitasking abyss.

The path to single-tasking mastery begins with a simple act—temporarily tucking your phone out of sight and banishing those pesky distractions. And for those moments when willpower wavers, you can rely on tools that block tempting websites and keep you locked in laser-focused productivity mode.

2. Take baby steps and set a timer

No one expects you to go from distracted and multitasking to hours on end of focused work. You can start with as little as 15 minutes of distraction-free and single-tasking focused time a day. When that starts to feel easy, try something like the Pomodoro technique (25 minutes of work followed by a five-minute break).

To quell the anxiety that the workplace may crumble while you concentrate, establish time intervals for checking emails and instant messages. Be open with your colleagues about your focused work periods.

The real magic lies in crafting a schedule that suits your needs, striking a balance between dedicated single-tasking and the flexibility to address the inevitable distractions that pop up in your day.

3. Meaningful breaks FTW

Single-tasking takes effort and energy. And to keep up with its demands, you need to take periodic breaks to replenish your stores. It’s important to take regular breaks where you get away from all your screens.

Something as simple as having a quick stretch and taking a stroll to the pantry to get yourself a glass of water are great ways to rejuvenate your mind so you can return to work feeling more focused and refreshed.

In a delightful twist of irony, we often achieve more by slowing down. And while single-tasking isn’t the solution to all your workplace problems, it’s a great place to start.

Source:

RescueTime