| 4 PRODUCTIVITY TIPS FOR MULTITASKERS |
| Multitasking is actually a misnomer because human beings are capable of doing only one thing at a time. But we humans are capable of switching back and forth between things as we take on new tasks that get our attention. While we keep moving from one task to another, back to the original one, then on to another, we think we’re getting a whole lot done—and in a very productive way. Unfortunately, the opposite is true. All that switching of tasks means we never focus very intensely on each one, and we can actually wind up spending more time accomplishing what we set out to do. That lack of intense focus can also hurt the quality of our work. Mistakes creep in. The work may not end up as thoroughly thought out as it should be. So, multitasking isn’t saving you time and may actually be hurting the quality of your output. But here are four tactics to get the urge to do everything at once under control. |
| Work with countdown timers. |
| Make a to-do list, then start with the first task and set a countdown timer. Do not go on to the next task until the timer goes off. You can apply this to a series of similar tasks, such as sitting down at your desk to catch up with your regular administrative work. Set a timer for answering emails, another one for scheduling social media, another for updating your files, etc. This forces you to focus on one task at a time instead of switching to new tasks as they occur to you. |
| Put boundaries on your phone. |
| Drop the idea you have to deal with phone calls and texts as soon as they arrive. Keep the phone off the table when you’re having dinner with the family. In your car, turn off the phone or disable its Bluetooth connection so you’re not tempted to text, which is dangerous, or answer calls, which can be distracting. Create phone-free space in your workday. |
| Reserve times that get your undivided attention. |
| Set aside times when you’re totally present for the experience at hand. Make a date night with your significant other. Schedule uninterrupted playtime with your children. Commit to a hobby, a gym workout, or to meditation/quiet time, and don’t let anything interfere with it. Pick an hour in the day for writing notes and emails, or for calling prospects. |
| Outsource activities that aren’t in your wheelhouse. |
| There are things others can do more quickly and expertly than you. These can be anything from updating your accounting software, to doing your taxes, to creating new marketing communications. Offload these things to the experts, then use the time you’ve freed up to do what only you can do. That includes communicating and following up with clients and prospects, preparing and making presentations, negotiating, and networking. |
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