WELL HAPPY WEDNESDAY.
I’m having an issue.
A weird issue though.
( But really what’s new, I feel like I’m the weirdest blogger on the planet…right, but kinda though? )
It may seem minuscule to you, but it’s big in my small world, currently.
& whenever I have a random issue like this, I turn to The Skinny Confidential community.
You guys have given me PRICELESS advice & I feel like everyone has something to share.
Ok, so what the hell is my issue?
MULTITASKING.
Before you go ahead & call me drama queen of century, hold up.
Multi-tasking is sort of known as a positive trait.
But lately I feel like it’s a trait that, well, hinders you.
I’ve observed small things about how UN-positive it’s been for the past two years.
Ultimately, it can be destructive because you’re not focused on the task at hand. Instead your focus is spread out, which can make it easy to fuck up in certain areas.
SO. The other night we were at dinner & some guy was going on and onnnnn ( & ON ) about how multitask-ers were unproductive.
He believes multitasking is an issue.
HMMM.
I can handle that. Self awareness is key. So I sat. And I sat, & I sat, & I sat. And I listened. & I thought.
( Self reflection at its finest, folks ).
‘EEEERrrr, perhaps I need to reevaluate the way I live/work/workout/aka everything.‘
Here’s my deal: I’m constantly multitasking. Today I was at my desk returning 2934738 emails, holding a conference call, trying to write a blog post, going over TSC newsletter, & approving graphics for the blog…in the same moment ( if we’re being honest I was trying to Snapchat too ).
This might not sound like a lot at once but lemme tell you, my life is like this ALL the time. Even when I’m traveling. It’s crazy, constantly multitasking. And not just like ‘oh I’m multitasking for a minute.’ It’s all damn day. From the second I wake up, to the second I go to bed. LITERALLY. Not one minute is wasted & some minutes are consumed by 10 different things.
Just to be clear: I’m not complaining. I love my job, but the multitasking aspect is intense. If I drop that ball for one day, it hits me like a ton of bricks the following day.
Today I was driving holding a Skype call, putting makeup on to pick up my Grandma & her friend, BJ for Bingo ( LONG story ), & attempting to return e-mails at stop lights. Madness. Too much multitasking, right? Another example: I would NEVER walk on the Treadmill without emailing, reading, or holding a conference call. The thought would never cross my mind. Multitasking helps me fit everything in.
Really, I should be a professional multitask-er for a living. I mean Michael can’t talk on the phone & make a sandwich, so there’s something unique about my weird mania.
Anyway, this weekend I literally wrote up a pros & cons list of being a maniac multi-tasker…you know…normal, weekend activities.
Ok here we go:
Pros:
+ moving back & forth between different projects prevents boredom & keeps you inspired and creative ( YES, YES, YES, ).
+ multitasking helps you learn how to deal with interruptions/distractions.
+ you develop the ability to cope even if there’s constant chaos.
+ you meet deadlines because you’re able to manage yourself.
Cons:
+ your attention is divided between multiple tasks, which means the quality of the work is not the same as if you were just focused on one project.
+ the efficient question comes in to play: at the end of the day how much did you actually accomplish?
+ your brain can get taxed due to multitasking. Switching between tasks can make you a less effective decision maker.
+ sometimes you can take longer than normal at a specific task, if you’re multitasking.
{ via }
OUTCOME:
So they say…”Having spoken about the pros and cons of multitasking, the key here is to learn to prioritize. Before you start multitasking, make a list of projects which are of high importance. As these tasks should be of high quality, make sure you give it all your attention and finish them in one or two sittings. And then there are the other tasks which can be completed in one sitting – do not waste time by going back and forth on them. Complete them in one sitting.The projects/chore that you should take up for multitasking should be those which are of less importance and don’t need a lot of attention. At this point, it would be safe to say that people with attention issues should focus on just one task at a time, at least until they learn to cope with distractions.”
My opinion: every morning I need to wake up & create a list of FIVE TO SIX things that absolutely have to get done. Focus on them first & then go from there. Thoughts?
Or is it possible that I’m just not that cool & need to get a life after this post? I guess I just figured why the hell not NOT put my little dilemma out there, ya know? Scary yes, but also exciting to hear what other people’s perspectives are.
Please by all means, WEIGH IN. The reason I’m even posting this for the world to see is because I’m absolutely open to constructive (?) criticism, helpful tips, & hints in the right direction.
Good talk.
For the record, NO ONE in the world is going to think it’s cute if I bring this up at a casual Thursday night dinner over pesto gnocchi, so that’s why I’m asking you.
You get it, so HELP.
As always— you guys rock, xxL
First off, I think women are naturally more prone to multitasking than men (maybe why that guy kinda didn’t get it). Being programmed to care for a child requires the ability to multitask.
Beyond that, if you think it has become an actual issue, then maybe look at how multitasking makes you feel as people tend to do things for emotional reasons. I can think of two options (1. maybe multitasking makes you feel important somehow; 2. maybe sitting still makes you feel really uncomfortable somehow) but there are likely plenty and only you can know. That’s my two cents 🙂
Hi Sarah, thank you for your comment. I totally see what you’re saying. Women might be more prone to multitask because kids definitely require multi tasking. For me, I guess I multi task constantly because I felt like it was more productive, but now I am realizing it might not be.. Thanks for reading! xx
I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately since I returned to work from maternity leave. I am an executive assistant and I support three directors so you can imagine multitasking is my life, a skill I bring to my job and sometimes the only way I can ensure my three bosses needs are met. But, supporting three successful professionals, you have to look at how they operate because they didn’t get to where they are being inefficient. I’ve been watching them. These guys produce excellent results constantly. And I beleive they don’t multitask. Yes, they have less transactional type work and more strategic “thinking and planning” type roles but they just get the job done. They focus, do one thing and swiftly move on. We call the behaviour ‘decide and act fast’. They don’t switch between tasks unless they have to. They allocate time, do the job in that time and then bamn. NEXT!!! I’m going to really try and incorporate this into my work life. Home? I have a kid so multitasking is king. It’s here to stay lol.
Hi Maddy, thank you so much for your comment! You just reinforced everything I’ve been thinking lately with your story. Your bosses sound amazing. What company do they work for? Thank you for reading / commenting, xx
I’ve actually been thinking about just this thing recently. While my attempts at multitasking are not near as complex or involved as yours, I have noticed that I’m maybe not as productive as it feels like I am when I multitask. (Does that sentence make sense?) For example, watching something and writing a blog post. Two tasks, but it seems like it takes me twice as long, or longer, to write that post than if I just sat down at my desk, put on some music and wrote!
So basically, I’m leaning towards cutting down on the multi-tasking myself. Or planning to…I haven’t done a great job with that so far lol
Hi Sara, yes definitely. If you think about it, watching something and trying to write a blog post is seriously over working your brain. Your brain is trying to listen, see, and be creative all at the same time. It’s too much! Try setting aside time in silence or with back ground music (I love smooth jazz). You should totally time yourself and see if you finish faster! Thanks for reading :))
I am 110% the same way! My husband can’t even talk and eat at the same time. He will either not eat his supper & talk, or he will keep eating and not hear a word you say. I do the same thing, talk with clients on the phone to help them, while taking out the dog, then come in and continue writing. I even end up switching back and fort from editing photos, to writing, to pinterest, to editing a paper, etc. I realized for me it was causing my work not to be as superior as it should, so I am trying hard to limit the amount of things I do at a time for the sake of stress. I actually wrote down a goal this week to spend a certain amount of time on blog writing, then stop and move on to consulting work, then stop and actually eat lunch free of it all. It was weird, but I felt less stress. But I totally feel ya girl! Men seem it have it so easy when it comes to this lol
Hi Alexis, did you get more done? Do you feel that you’re more efficient? I am definitely going to try to cut down on the multi tasking too. Thanks for reading <3
Hi,
Great post!!
I was wondering where the desk is from, it’s amazing!! and the picture in the background?
Xx from Denmark
Hi Stefanie, thank you! The desk is one of kind. It’ was made by my friend Westin, his stuff is seriously rad. Here is his website: http://www.westinmitchell.com
Thanks for reading <3
Oh God…I HEAR YOU. I am the worst for multi tasking. It makes me feel like I’m more productive, buuuut upon further reflection it may not be for the best.
You’re so right about the “make a list of must-dos and get ‘er done” thing…it may be a good idea to focus on the super important stuff, and then let myself multi-task on the more trivial stuff.
Is it a girl thing to multi-task? Or just a special breed of us….lemmmmmme know.
http://www.theclydescope.com
Hi Carly! I think tons of people multi task not just women, however it does make sense that women might be more prone to it. Who knows.. but I am definitely going to work on it. xx
Your multitasking skills are impressive and it seems like this skill is necessary for you to accomplish all that you need to in a day. I see nothing wrong with multitasking in general. But, there is a place and time for it. This positive quality can become a hindrance if you feel the need to use it all the time. For example, are you able to stop multitasking to spend quality time with loved ones? Is it difficult to shut this skill off when having a serious conversation with someone so they have your undivided attention? It may be a good idea to ask those closest to you if they feel jipped by your efficiency.
Hi Christina, yes I completely agree. There is a time and a place! I think I can turn it off as long as I am reflecting, actively telling myself, and focusing on being present. Your comment is definitely food for thought though, thank you! xx
what I love about your blog is that you are the only one that writes your posts. I find so many blogs these days have so many different people writing their posts. Everyone has different writing styles and it is so inconsistent. I love your blog and you are very busy and expanding so quickly, but you would always make the blog yours.
Hi Juliana, thank you! I really appreciate your comment. Honestly, I really enjoy writing my posts. It’s my space to share my thoughts and express my creativity. Plus, you guys are seriously the best I get so much insight and inspiration from you. Thanks for reading <3
So I have the same problem. It got me very far very quick in my career but my social relationships suffer. I agree that there are projects that need your undivided attention and you should prioritize those. But it is also ok to multitask. It is part of who I am and I really can’t change it. I tried and I was SO bored.
I say your list should be what is most important to you that day. For example every day I usually have 1 to 2 projects at work that I focus on for a set amount of time. Then with the remaining time I get to the other 10 projects.
Then I go home and I keep my phone on silent in my purse for 30 mins while me and my husband catch up on our day. Then I start multitasking again.
It is part of who you are and that is good. Now you know yourself better you can also judge when you need to focus on one thing or one person.
Hi Loretta, thank you SO much for the tips for my lists. I appreciate it :)) Thanks for reading <3
Story of my life!! Currently reading this post while walking on the treadmill haha but I should really be watching a documentary for my thesis (can’t do any serious reading, can you??). When I was an editor for my college newspaper, I would have people meet with me while I was on the treadmill, cooking for the week or folding laundry!
I guess my rule of thumb is to try to keep work stuff isolated, and combine/optimize when it comes to extra stuff. Like I will talk to my mom while doing my nails, then walk the treadmill/drive while they dry. Or instead of reading the news, I’ll listen to it on my laptop while cooking. Also a big fan of audiobooks while walking/grocery shopping hahah! Right there with you, girl.
Hi Lavina, great ideas! Thank you! I love working out / hiking with friends. It’s a great way to catch up + get my sweat on. Thanks for reading <3
I have read sooo many personal development books, listened to podcasts, and watched every lecture possible on how to improve productivity and how to prioritize. The number one thing I have learned is that, people cannot multi-task, we think we can, we think we are good at it, but we cant. I do it all the time. I was like ‘this is why I am so successful’. Then it hit me, it SLOWS me down, big time. What I do is choose 3 things that I must get done, those 3 things have to be towards my larger goal and what I want to accomplish. I also put my phone on airplane mode during work times and set times to reply to emails and snapchat.
Hi Amanda, eeeek I really need to curb the multi tasking. What do you think about multi tasking while doing house chores or talking on the phone. For example, cleaning the house, doing laundry, while talking on the phone or doing a DIY facial. LMK! Thank you for your comment! xx
I am glad you posted this! I too have been juggling so many different things lately…new job, big life changes, social life, dog, fitness goals, travel etc.
I notice my stress level goes down significantly when I make lists of essential must do’s for the day, both professional and personal! Whenever I just try to wing it, I get overwhelmed or forget something and then stress about it later.
Plus, its oddly satisfying to check off tasks as you go, and even more satisfying when you complete a list!
While its not always possible to focus on just one task, doing so when you can will probably reduce stress 🙂
Good luck!
Thanks for your comment Liz! <3
Try the Pomodoro method- changed my life!
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pomodoro_Technique
Thank you Caroline! xx
I am totally with you in this, Lauryn! I am a multitasker too. I try to write a blog post, read blogs,watch the news, and talk on the phone all on the same time. The outcome? None of the things gets my full attention. The other person on the phone feels like I am not listening, I can’t focus on the news, my blogpost is filled we mistakes, and there is no chance I can read other blogs too! Honestly, I don’t know why I even bother try multitasking that much!
So instead of mulititasking ALL the time I try to focus on one thing at a time. If I am one the phone then I am actually on the phone! The thing is I can’t have my full attention at to (or ten!) things at the same time so I might as well give my full attention to one thing at a time. I find that the results are way better – and I am less stressed 🙂
Love your tips! Thank you for sharing Heidi <3
I love that you wrote this, because recently I have been the Queen Multi-tasker! We just moved into our new home this recent weekend and I am currently sitting in a pool of boxes. I try to spend a majority of my day unpacking but sometimes I notice something that needs to be done and I start doing 2+ things at once! I think it’s a natural thing we woman do. We always have to be busy and doing something.
Hi Ashley, moving is the worst! Sorry + good luck with that. I would totally be multitasking if I was moving as well. Maybe just set 30 minutes in between every hour or so of unpacking? So you focusing on each thing? Even if you’re switching back and forth at least you’re focusing on one thing at a time. Good luck, xx
I multitask all the time. I’ve been feeling the same way, about it being an issue. Sometimes I think I’m not focused enough on the task at hand. But there’s so many things that I want to do be doing while I’m at work. Checking blogs, reading articles, looking at instagram, twitter and facebook. I love finding out new information and being inspired by others constantly and so I’m always checking these things out for that reason.
I’ve always felt like if I could just work on my time and at home or coffee shop that I’d be more productive in getting my work done, all the while getting personal things done as well. But that’s probably not true.
Anyways I’m trying my best lately to learn to focus on one task at hand so that I feel like my brain isn’t in overdrive. Only check email for 30 minutes at this time. Move to the next task, blog only, just trying not to multi-task basically. We’ll see how it works. But I do make sure that at least once a week I have me time, to be mindless, no checking out articles/social media. Just me and whatever I feel like doing, but it has to be pretty mindless, usually netflix because why not?! haha!
Hi Leslie! Oh man, the ‘only check emails at certain times’ thing would be so hard for me. I am constantly checking emails. How do you do it?? Teach me! Thanks babe <3
Soo guilty of this as I’m at work on a phone call, writing an email, browsing my favorite blogs, updating my blog, facebooking on my phone and eating some yogurt. MADNESS!
I always set aside time on the weekend to completely disconnect from all the distractions life brings. I’ll go on a hike without my phone (gasp!), to the beach or even just leave everything in the bedroom while I veg out on the couch!
Set some time aside to relax and disconnect. It is so refreshing!
Hi Diana, I hear you! It’s so hard to turn it all off and still feel productive. Okay well, we can try to curb the multi tasking together. <3
To guage whether or not it’s effective at that particular time with those particular actions, I try to pay attention to whether I feel like I’m repeating parts of any of the tasks. For example, I can easily listen to the boyfriend chat about his day while putting the dishes away. I cannot, however, concentrate on a difficult recipe while talking to anyone. If I have to ask someone to repeat something or verify 3 or 4 times the amount of baking soda I need, then I need to stop multitasking and just focus.
This TOTALLY makes sense Carrie. I fee like to keep track of this you just need to reflect and be present. Definitely going to use this tip. xx
The Pomodoro Technique first comes to mind. Basically, you set a timer for each task you intend to do and focus only on that one task until it goes off. People suggest setting a timer for 10, 20, 30 minutes, but if you’re used to being on full speed all day every day, you might want to think about setting your timer for 2, 5, or 8, depending on what you’re trying to do. Answer ONLY emails for two minutes, work on the newsletter for ONLY 8 minutes, etc.
You can also set rules or limits for yourself that don’t require a timer. For obvious safety reasons, use of makeup and electronics should be banned in the car (but that’s cause I’m a big scaredy cat).
You can assign two tasks to always be “glued” together. Whenever you have a conference call, that’s your time to also be on the treadmill. Maybe you could even schedule your conference calls around your workout times.
There’s also points throughout the day that can help set up boundaries for your work. You can respond to emails any time throughout the day but you can only work on the newsletter before lunch. You can’t work on blog posts until after dinner. These sort of rules will allow you to still have a flexible schedule while also giving your overactive mind some structure. It will also help knowing that you have a specific, set time to get a specific task done and might eliminate some of your desire or need to do it right then and there.
This is what helps me with my multitasking. I hope it helps you too!
LOVE this. Might have to try it. I have a timer on my phone so maybe I’ll try this tomorrow. Thank you for sharing the Pomodoro Technique Scout! xx
Oh, honey. That’s what I was thinking reading this! Poor thing! I feel ya and understand the plight completely, but I hope you get some real chill time sometime soon! One of the best things I have found is meditating at night before bed. Even if it’s for say, ten minutes, it helps me chill out for just a bit and really get my mind clear before trying to fall asleep! I hope you can get some restful moments for your mind. 🙂
Thank you Hilary <3 It's been crazy but hopefully things will settle down. Thank you for the tips <3
I am so bad at it as well! I sound just like you! I go back and forth and I know it is not the most productive way to do things!
I think multitasking can be great when done right but girl, you are going overboard! haha It sounds like you aren’t really able to live in the moment and enjoy it, if you are doing so many different things. Don’t those things deserve more of your full attention? Maybe write down which things need your full attention (um, like driving haha) and which don’t!
OMG I LOVE this post, and I might even embrace a weekend activity such as writing pros + cons on this topic 🙂 I’m constantly multi-tasking and do agree it increases creativity and decreases boredom, but yes, I am still confused on how productive the outcome is. At least you got others out there like me feelin the same dilemma!
xx
Carly
http://bunbunbook.com
This has similarly been on my mind lately! I’m thinking about doing a “mini-study” with myself one day “multitasking” one day only one task at a time allowed. We’ll see what happens!!
XO Chloe
A Latte Lipstick
Yes! I used to put “great multitasker” on my cover letters, right when I got out of college. But I have learned that that it is not always a good thing.
I realized multitasking wasn’t working for me after work one day, when I came home to relax and unwind. I grabbed my laptop to check out some blogs, turned on a Real Housewives episode, and grabbed the book I was reading at the time. By the time I went to bed that night, I was stressed! I’m like, why do I feel like I need to unwind still?? And it’s because I never let my mind focus on one thing I liked doing at a time, so I didn’t really get to relax and fully enjoy anything. I was so distracted! Haha so silly because I was stressed about chill things, but it opened my eyes to my work habits and how long it takes me to do things when the focus isn’t there and I am jumping from 1 task to the other.
Anyways, loved the post! It was a great reminder to stay focused
I am a multitasking queen too!!! I can’t not be doing at least 3 things at once. I agree though, big projects your work product can suffer. I know that I need to slow down and take a step back more often than I do. I love the idea of making a list of top priorities. I already write a good ol’ fashion “to do” list each day so maybe the top priority is at the top each day. I’m weird and get such satisfaction with checking things off of a list. So I have to have a list every day or I might posy break out in a panic attack or hives! I love that I’m not alone out there with my crazy multitasking psycho-ness. Thanks for the tips!! Love reading your blog, it’s The only one I actually fully read and not just skim over 🙂 thanks for always putting yourself out there and being honest.
This is such an important post for bloggers and any woman in this modern, technology age. It is so hard to get away form multi-tasking, it actually takes WORK to be able to NOT multi-task so I so respect those who are aware of this being an issue and working hard to change it. Thanks for posting!
You need an assistant. You should direct your focus on all the real “TSC Brand” tasks; like blog posts, interviews, conference calls… and your assistant can chew through the emails, take phone messages, handle some social media and general enquiries. I know it would be a cost you might not initially find worth it, but once you get more of your life back you will learn how FRIGGIN AWESOME it is 🙂 xx
Don’t multitask. I have to do it everyday with my daughters and I always lose my train of thought and what I was doing. Everything is half assed and I have to re-ask or re-do what I was working on. It is awful. When I was working it seemed “cool” to be able to multi task but in reality it is not. At first it is harder to focus and do one thing at a time but much easier to complete from start to finish. The Founder of Google went to Montessori school and credits his success to Montessori. There they teach you NOT to multitask but to complete your work from start to finish and not move on until you complete it. I know we never have enough time to take the time but it is something to think about.
I hear ya! I have always been a multi-tasker and thought that’s just how my brain works. Don’t get me wrong, I can still multi-task like a mofo… but I’ve reinvented the way I go about my day and it has changed my life. Every morning when I wake up I write out my to do lists. I have separate ones for home, work, etc. I make little boxes next to each item on my list so as I complete each thing I check it off. I don’t usually go in order or anything, I just bounce around my entire list but I don’t start a new task until I complete the one I’m working on. There’s something so satisfying about crossing stuff off and knowing you don’t have to deal with it anymore. I add to my list when things come up that I need to get done, but I don’t start them right away. I’ve become so much more focused, productive, happy and calm throughout my day. And It’s super helpful to look at your list at the end of the day and know exactly what you got done and not feel like you’re forgetting anything. Obviously, there are times when things have to roll over to the next day before they’re finished..and I’m working on being ok with that 😉 I’m a total OCD control freak so for me letting go is not easy. Putting my work away when I go home and not responding to my emails until the next morning started off like a Chinese torture chamber. With time, it got easier. And I have to say I’m so much happier now. When I’m home I’m spending quality time with my man and enjoying myself. I’m not thinking about 28793847593845 other things going on in my head that I could hypothetically be doing right now. When I’m at work, I’m 100% at work. I almost feel more respected now because whenever I’m doing something I’m doing it with my complete, undivided attention. It’s really, really nice!!! I highly recommend it 🙂
Hi Lauren, I love your blog BTW. It’s so real and actually applies to my life. I am perfectionist and slightly ADD. I go to school and work full time so I am constantly multi tasking or thinking/making never ending lists of all the things I need to do. Usually I can manage this and to be honest, get a weird satisfaction out of it. Being busy means I’m living life to the fullest right?! Well I’ve been feeling terrible the last few months, only to find out that I’ve had mono! While most people are in bed for a month, I’ve only taken one sick day. The effect of this is that I haven’t been able to perform my best at anything I do. My boyfriend has been telling me for months to slow down. And I have finally seen the light! The problem with multitasking is that your brain is constantly in high response mode. Although it may seem productive to us, it’s actually quite stressful for it to always be geared up and running at full steam. Long story short, I think it’s important to allocate times that are specifically for multitasking and getting tasks accomplished. Then the rest of the time should be focused on the pr sent moment. Hope that helps and thanks for making such an uplifting fun environment for us girls!
Very insightful Lauryn! Especially as a University student who also has 2 part-time jobs and a hundred other things going on at all times haha. I say you’ve gotta do what works for you- everyone is different and you’re lucky that you have the ability to multitask so well and make it all work. With that being said, I don’t think there’s anything wrong with taking a step back and trying a different approach to accomplishing your daily tasks. See how it goes but don’t feel bad if you lose patience with it. You’re a hard worker, take pride in that! 🙂
I’ve been doing better at focusing on one thing and my work I do with clients has drastically improved! I feel like the work I put out is 100 times better because I really focus on the task at hand! Thanks for sharing and I look forward to reading a follow up post about your success with un multitasking xo C
A few weeks ago when you wrote that you walk on the treadmill and read, I was like wow I should start doing that instead of just sitting in a chair reading. Now I read for 30 minutes on the treadmill everyday on top of my normal workout. Your multi tasking is contagious, haha!
It’s a great way to get moving! You’ll be feeling more energized and tighter in no time without even trying!
GIRL! I totally feel you. As a fellow blogger and business woman, it’s SO freaking hard to not get things done all at once. I think multi-tasking is the only way we can somehow do it all, as long as we aren’t letting ourselves get distracted. Time management is defos key to success! I find myself returning texts, emails, writing blog outlines on the treadmill and it makes me feel like I’ve accomplished so much in the hour that I’m walking. It’s the best kind of 2 for 1 deal!
xo NM
ummmm loveee this.
I feel like my brain like can only function in multi task mode now too, like I constantly go from thing to thing to thing and I am always doing 3 things at once or I feel unproductive and lazy. It’s totally a blessing because I’m getting shit done, and I feel good about stuff but then again I think I never go deep on things, I’m just scraping the surface….
Thoughts to ponder. Would love to chat ab this over wine!
Have a good weekend b.
xoxoox
Krista
Hi Lauryn,
Reading your blog is one of my favorite things to do on Saturday morning/afternoon and I look forward to it all week. I curl up on the couch with a cup of tea, my iPad, and my dog, Finn, and get caught up on everything I missed out on during the week as I have almost every single work day planned down to minutes…it’s the one true moment of downtime for me (even though I’m already thinking about what I need to do next). Multitasking is a side effect of ambition. I’m a young professional that is working my way up the corporate ladder and I can totally relate to this post. I work for one of the largest reference labs in the country and I’m constantly doing 3-4 tasks at the same time. I have found the only way I maintain my sanity is I have three designated times that I am completely focused on being in that moment (they are do not disturb moments for the rest of the world). The first one is my morning walks with Finn (20 min a day). I feel guilty if she doesn’t get that undivided attention from me. The second is my gym time – that’s my time. Everyone from my boss to my boyfriend knows I’m completely unavailable for that hour 3-4 times a week. And the only other time I’m not multi-tasking is Sunday nights – that is our designated date night. We both set aside our busy lives to just enjoy each other. These moments are the ones I look forward to the most while the rest of the time I’m trying to better myself, my company and build a strong foundation for my future! Best wishes!
Hi Lauren,
Big time PAST time multi tasker here! I’m currently a student balancing out college, starting a hair and beauty blog, reviewing products, and working at a law firm all while balancing out a relationship. I understand where you are coming from with emails, tasks, etc BUT what I did not realize was my tasks were actually not so “important” as I thought AT that moment.
That email I sent to a follower or such could wait till the weekend. That call back to a client could happen right now. Prioritizing is key. Perhaps make a time schedule. So you posted about your morning routine but maybe think “I have such and such amount of emails. I will reply to 50 within 1 hour or such. OUT of those 50 10-20 will be business related or projects that are due this week”.
Think about how long it takes you to do things! I know I can do at least 30 emails in an hour. I do running for 45 minutes. I shower for a half hour. I know some days I get flustered and try to go back to doing multiple things but honestly… it never works out or it is crap.
Reread some of your posts or emails. Do they seem like they could be better? That’s what I ask myself. Don’t go crazy but be realistic!
Have you ever thought about hiring a college assistant or such? Someone who wants to work in the beauty industry or such could be beneficial.
Let me know what you think!
xoxo Riley
Great post Lauryn! I am such a victim of this myself. identifying and SCHEDULING into my day a block of time to do the two most important things I need to get done has been super effective. The rest I can multitask on, and do less well if need be.
Sometimes we multitask to procrastinate what we really don’t want to do, or avoid a big thing. This just adds to the stress! Being honest with yourself about the importance of the things your to do list helps a lot too 🙂
If you want to keep pondering this, you have GOT to read ‘work love and play… When no on has the time’ I forgot the author but you can look it up. totally dissects this issue with so many studies referenced. Check it out!