Time to stop multitasking?
between tasks or, serial tasking. Unfortunately, serial tasking is neither efficient nor effective.
research has shown that switching between multiple tasks can take up to 40% more time than focussing on a single task until completion before moving on to the next.
So the next time you find yourself facing several competing priorities and the urge to tackle them all at once, try following the tips below.
■ Prioritise in order of urgency, value and effort – When the tasks on your to do list seem equally important, first rank them in order of urgency (which tasks have the most negative consequences if you don’t complete them now?), then value (completion of which tasks will result in the greatest benefit to you?), and finally the amount of effort required.
■ Focus your attention mindfully – We all have an “observing self ” that can choose to focus our awareness on anything that we can perceive through our senses. Think of this part of you as a spotlight that can illuminate whatever it is that you are focussing on. Notice when your focus drifts and gently guide your spotlight back to the task at hand.
■ reward yourself for effective performance – Give yourself a pat on the back when you succeed at completing one task at a time.
■ Do whatever feels most rewarding – a cup of coffee, a breath of fresh air or praising yourself for a job well done. rewards, or positive reinforcement, is key to increasing the chances of the