Myths about the multitasking of Julius Caesar have survived to this day. It is said that he could simultaneously listen, write and dictate several letters. A modern person will hear about these feats with a smile, snacking while watching a video, writing and checking e-mail.
Why is multitasking bad?
Each of us has heard the saying about chasing two birds with one stone, but for some reason, experts had to prove the lack of benefits of multitasking. That's right: scientists, in contrast to influencers, urge to focus on one thing, otherwise there is no question of productivity.
It is a misconception that juggling tasks and constantly switching between them helps to cope with all matters faster. Outwardly, such people seem energetic and on time everywhere, but this is just an illusion. In fact, the shifting of attention centers reduces work efficiency by 40%, according to experts from Stanford University in California.
The human brain is able to effectively cope with one task, but when overloaded with multifaceted tasks, the main organ loses concentration, the setting of priorities and the organization of thinking deteriorate. Constant jumping from one assignment to another is a real stress for our idea generator, so multitasking should be abandoned first of all for the sake of health. Otherwise, a person turns into a mindless robot with a dull look.
How to focus on one thing?
Now that scientists have explained the negative impact of multitasking on the brain, productivity and quality of work, it is necessary to decide how to learn to focus on one thing. First of all, you should always make a to-do list and gradually move from the first point to the last.
Do not be distracted by social networks, correspondence, watching the TV series in the background. Allow yourself to focus on one thing and ignore endless messages. It is ideal to develop a habit of opening only one tab in the browser.
In extreme cases, two tasks can be performed, but they must differ in level of difficulty. Try to stick to the 20-minute rule, devoting a certain amount of time to just one task, instead of switching between them.
It is important to take a break between tasks, if possible, change the workplace and delegate tasks to others. In the case of multitasking, most people overestimate the omnipotence of the brain, so it is better not to mention the glaring quality in the resume, unless you are applying for the driver's seat of a minibus.