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The Myth of Multitasking
Why You're Not Really Doing Everything at Once and How Focused Work Wins
Brian Hank
January 16, 2025
The Illusion of Multitasking
The term “multitasking” originated in the computing industry. It is used to describe computers’ ability to perform multiple tasks simultaneously. However when it comes to human brains, what we often think of as multitasking is actually “task-switching”. We are switching between tasks. By nature, our brains are not capable of doing more than one task at a time.
The Cost of Task-Switching
When we switch from one task to another, there is a cognitive cost. Research shows that shifting between tasks can cause a 40% loss in productivity. Each switch might waste only 1/10th of a second, but it adds up when people flip between tasks repeatedly. This not only slows you down but can lead to more mistakes.
Focused Work: A More Effective Alternative
Studies suggest that deep, focused work—concentrating on one task at a time—leads to higher productivity, creativity, and satisfaction. The concept of “deep work,” popularized by author Cal Newport, argues that in an age of distraction, the ability to focus without distraction is becoming increasingly rare—and increasingly valuable.
Conclusion
So next time you find yourself juggling multiple tasks at once, remember that true efficiency lies not in the number of tasks you can handle simultaneously but in the depth and quality of your focus. Consider setting aside dedicated times for different tasks and see how much more you accomplish.
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Regards,
Brian Hank
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