Why do we like multitasking, Reader?

Rudy Vidal in Multitasking Doesn’t Work says:

“Being more selective about what we do—prioritizing—takes time and effort, and the results aren’t immediately visible. We don’t want to be perceived as lazy or unproductive.

Prioritizing is a risk. It means placing your bets on a few things and disregarding others for the time being. It feels safer to do a little bit of everything.”

We’ve been indoctrinated into the “fast and easy” way of life.

Multitasking makes all tasks seem equally important.

This gets us into a reactive mode instead of deeply evaluating the value of each task before acting.

Prioritizing takes more effort.

For more on the brain effect of multitasking read or listen to my post here.

💡 The new definition of productivity

What's the alternative?

Practice these three things and you’ll set yourself up for sustainable success.

1. Focus on one thing at a time

When you feel overwhelmed pick the one thing that contributes the most to your goal.

Or will lift the heaviest weight.

Gary Keller in The One Thing says to ask this question anytime you’re distracted or wondering what to do next:

“What one thing can you do for your life/business/project that by doing it makes other things easier or unnecessary?”

Give yourself that gift today.

Trust that your inner wisdom knows how to guide you.

2. Separate from thoughts and emotions

When you separate yourself from your thoughts and emotions it’s easier to focus.

Cynthia Kubu and Andre Machado said:

“Those who are mindful are able to do more than just pay attention; they do so on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally. This is perhaps the most advanced form of attentiveness, and it can result in decision-making made in a stress-free and less reactive environment.”

My favorite way to practice mindfulness is meditation.

Not the hour-long in total silence way.

​But the ten minutes or less way.​

3. Batch your work

My absolute favorite tip to follow.

Batching is a lifestyle for me.

I batch my work using theme days.

This works with the efficiency of the brain and not against it like switching tasks does.

Every day of the week is dedicated to a specific kind of work and I don’t deviate from that day’s work.

For example, Thursdays are my content writing days.

Anything marketing or client-related gets written down in my phone notes and addressed another day.

Then I get back to work.

I’ve felt so much peace and safety in doing this.

✅ Opting out of the system

The old way of productivity is out and the new way is in.

It's time to opt out of systems that no longer work for us.

Are you in?

Do any of these tips stand out to you? Hit reply and let me know!

Your joy matters!
Francesca

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