The buzzword “multi-tasking” refers to trying to do several things at one time, whether at home or work. Although on the surface it seems a desirable skill, new studies suggest that doing too many things at the same time could make you less efficient.
Researchers at the University of Michigan say that multitasking dilutes the brainpower needed to perform each task. They also found that chronic high-stress multitasking is linked to short-term memory loss. That is, you could hear something your boss said but not remember it.
Time lost switching among tasks increases with the complexity of the tasks, further decreasing efficiency.
Some warning signs that you may be trying to do too many things at once:
* Lapses in attentiveness
* Loss of concentration
* Gaps in short-term memory
* Stress symptoms such as shortness of breath.
If you must do two things at once, try to cultivate the ability to control mental focus. Weed out distractions, and stop anything else when one thing requires actual thought. The doctors say it’s better to stay in the moment briefly, focus on one thing and deal with that before moving on to the next. Of course, that’s not always possible.
Have a Profitably Day,
