Sometimes our lives become so busy that we feel we need to take on more than one task at a time to get it all done. Maybe you are helping your child with their homework, while also making dinner for the evening. Perhaps at work you are answering emails while also preparing materials for your upcoming meeting. We may multitask without even thinking about it, but what exactly is happening in our brains when we multitask and are there costs to our health and productivity?
There are a few different ways that we can multitask. Sometimes we may do two tasks at once (walking and talking) while other times we may flip back and forth between 2 or more tasks (texting a friend and reading a book). When we move between tasks, it can take a little time for your brain to switch from one task to another. This switch can be easier and quicker with simple tasks, but can take more time between complex or unfamiliar tasks. This may not seem like a big deal, but that short delay could make a huge difference in split second decisions, such as if someone was driving while talking on the phone and needed to quickly avoid a collision.
What can we do to help increase our focus and attention in a world where we may feel like we have to multitask?
- Try “monotasking” – keep your focus on one task at a time. You can even set a timer for when you need to move on to your next thing. The “Pomodoro Method” recommends focusing for 25-50 minutes, then rewarding yourself with a 5-10 minute mental break after.
- Avoid electronic distractions – turn your phone to its “do not disturb” setting or mute your emails at work for a set period of time. Just don’t forget to unmute when you are done with your task!
- Ease up your schedule – allow for slow periods or schedule “slow days” to give your mind a break or catch up on tasks. For me, I try to make Fridays my day to catch up at work.
- Communicate clearly with others. If you need help or are feeling over-whelmed, be sure to reach out to your family, friends, or coworkers. You can also let your loved ones know when you may be unavailable for them to reach by phone or text (such as when you are driving!).
What ways do you combat the costs of multitasking? Let us know in the comments!
Written By: Jessica Lowe, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Pickaway County, Ohio State University Extension, lowe.495@osu.edu
Reviewed By: Caitlin Mathews-Smith, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Guernsey County, Ohio State University Extension, mathews-smith.1@osu.edu
Resources:
American Psychological Association. (2006, March 20). Multitasking: Switching costs. American Psychological Association. https://www.apa.org/topics/research/multitasking
Cornell University. (n.d.). The perils of multitasking. Learning Strategies Center. https://lsc.cornell.edu/managing-time-and-stress/the-perils-of-multitasking/
University of Southern California. (2023, November 17). Are there benefits of multitasking?. USC Dornsife. https://appliedpsychologydegree.usc.edu/blog/benefits-of-multitasking