Multi-tasking:  Does it Hurt or Help?

by Sherri Curley

According to some experts, multi-tasking hurts; it’s detrimental to productivity, work quality and focus. In fact, they say it can even be dangerous at times. Case in point: accidents caused by inattentive or distracted drivers, or pedestrians scrolling through phones.

Increased stress while handling multiple, simultaneous tasks can raise blood pressure, elevate heartrate, exacerbate brain fog and intensify physical and mental exhaustion.

Switching incessantly between activities leads to reduced efficiency as the brain attempts to process multiple unrelated bits of information or segue from one activity to another and back. Careless errors and inattentiveness result because you’re not fully present in either activity. Performance suffers and interactions may be strained as others sense you’re not fully engaged. You’ve likely seen this in restaurants: one partner sits bored and irritated while his or her companion is on the phone.

What is multi-tasking and why do we do it if it’s harmful? I for one, have always been a rabid multi-tasker for two reasons: efficiency and thriving on constant stimulation. I am, however, discerning about the types of tasks I do simultaneously. In fact, I often encourage clients struggling with self-motivation or finding time for menial tasks to try “light” multi-tasking as it can really help in both areas.

What is “light” multi-tasking? Engaging in tasks, chores or activities that don’t require intense concentration and are often monotonous. For instance, when you’re on hold with the cable company, do a little light dusting or sweeping. Toss in a load of laundry while chatting with your bestie long distance. Listening to a podcast or watching a show while exercising makes the time fly. Pay bills while dinner cooks or while awaiting an appointment.

Successful multitasking also depends on a person’s ability to attend to more than one action. I know some people with brain-based challenges who choose not to listen to the radio while driving to minimize distractions. Notice what activities easily pair and adjust to suit your capabilities and comfort level.

Finally, keep to a minimum unnecessary distractions such as social media, alerts on devices, irritating noises, extreme temperatures, ineffective lighting and uncomfortable clothes. Yes, atmospheric conditions can cause (almost) unnoticeable aggravation. Keeping your environment clear will go a long way in helping you concentrate on the things you need or wish to accomplish with greater alacrity — whether one at a time or two birds with one mop.

Sherri Curley, aka The Practical Sort is a home organizing coach, motivator, speaker, and writer at The Practical Sort Eco-Organizing Solutions.  She adores sharing her passion for a simpler life for those gifted with ADHD via practical, eco-friendly solutions.