How to Stop Multitasking and Get More Done
Feb 03, 2022
I used to wear multitasking as a badge of pride! I can even remember times when it was a required skill in job ads (scary!). Sadly, I was kidding myself and multitasking is a myth that got in the way of my productivity.
According to ‘The One Thing’ by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan, multi-tasking is estimated at making people 28% less efficient. This is a huge amount of wasted time and energy that could be better used elsewhere!
We’re capable of doing two things at once like walking and talking, but we can’t fully focus on two things because our attention bounces backwards and forwards between them. With all the interruptions we get through our day from our phones pinging, to being interrupted by a delivery - it all adds to making us less efficient and effective.
Here are 6 ways to stop multi-tasking:
Time blocking
This is a game-changer – use your diary to organise your week and allocate time to your regular tasks and any projects you’re working on.
By setting times to work with clients, for admin, for marketing, for the new course, you’re developing – you’ll ensure you’re available for them and be able to focus for the allotted time. But you need to guard the time to stop anything else from sneaking in and sabotaging it.
If you want to take this a step further, you can colour code your diary so you can see at a glance what you’re doing and when.
Batch similar tasks together
By doing similar things together, you’re able to keep in the same flow. I do this with my client calls, writing blog posts etc. and find it really helps me to get into the right mindset. Batching works brilliantly alongside time blocking as a powerful time-saving combo.
Be realistic
Most of us have huge to-do lists and we tend to over-estimate what’s achievable in any given day. Keep the main list in one place for reference so nothing gets forgotten but have a shortlist for your week. Then start each day with your non-negotiable priority to focus your efforts and if you get onto doing any other jobs – bonus!
Cut out the distractions
Distractions will cost you time – there is a delay between stopping one thing and starting another which equates to much of the wasted 28% of your time quoted in ‘The One Thing’.
It’s important to stop as many distractions as possible from sabotaging you. Tell people not to disturb you, close your email and tabs on your computer, put your phone on silent - anything that could sidetrack you from the task at hand.
Take time out
Once you’ve done a block of time of focused work, make sure you give yourself a break as it will help to keep you fresh and productive for the rest of the day.
I book in my lunch break, so I have time to give my brain proper time off from work. Before I did this, I’d often find myself taking lunch in the middle of the afternoon or eating at my desk – neither of which are great for keeping me productive.
Celebrate your achievements
At the end of the day, notice how much you have achieved and allow yourself to appreciate and celebrate them no matter how big or small. You’re rewarding yourself with recognition which feels good and you’ll feel less overwhelmed - and your job list will soon start shrinking too!
A great way to do this is to have a catch up with a business buddy on a Friday and celebrate together. Or share your wins in a community like the Holistic Business Matters Facebook group.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed in your business and like you’re constantly trying to juggle everything, it’s time to stop multitasking and start to focus. Give yourself permission to let some things go and focus on finishing one project at a time.
If you’re struggling to work out where to focus your time in your business, book a call and find out how I can help you as a coach-mentor.
