Why You Should Avoid Multitasking and How to Work More Effectively
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Multitasking: Less Productivity, More Problems
Why does multitasking reduce productivity when logic suggests it should boost efficiency? The answer lies in the difference between the human brain and a machine’s processor. Our brains aren’t designed to handle multiple tasks simultaneously without distraction.
Distraction is a unique trait of the human brain. We’re wired to focus on one thing at a time.
So, is multitasking impossible? Of course not—but not for tasks requiring full cognitive load. If you multitask while doing mentally demanding work, you’ll likely face burnout. Your brain becomes exhausted, work progress slows, and deadlines slip.
Ironically, the original goal of multitasking—to boost productivity—backfires.
The Right Approach: Single-Tasking
There’s only one effective way to improve productivity: Focus on one thing at a time.
Yes, we all know this answer. But why is it so hard to practice?
Distractions come not just externally (notifications, interruptions) but also internally—our own wandering thoughts. To stay focused, we need consistency: the discipline to ignore sudden distractions and stick to the task at hand.
This requires training. For example, as I write this post, my brain urges me to check the environment installation progress or switch to another task. I consciously ignore those urges to finish this article. It sounds odd, but I know many people experience this too.
If I switched tasks to check the installation status, this post would likely end up abandoned in my drafts. Why? Because revisiting it later would feel less urgent—my initial motivation would fade.
By staying focused on writing, I’ve managed to complete this post faster.
My Battle with Distractions
Actually, while writing this post, distractions flooded in: checking the installation, skipping disliked songs, glancing at phone notifications, and even shifting my sitting position.
Yet, focusing solely on this post proved that single-tasking works. I finished it thoroughly and efficiently.
I am far away from keeping the mindset ‘FOCUS’, and learning about that is a never-ending process.
The best tool to keep our mind focused is also our mind, only ourselves that can maintain the focus.
Conclusion
I wrote this post for myself—to prove that focusing on one task at a time helps me complete work faster. By dedicating our brain’s full resources to a single goal, we achieve better results.
If you’ve felt the same struggle, I hope this resonates with you. Let’s train our brains to embrace depth over breadth.
Struggling with multitasking? Share your story in the comments—or tag someone who needs this reminder! 💡
Cheers!
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