Multitasking, a term borrowed from the computer world, is about handling multiple tasks at the same time. Whether it is a useful skill today depends on the situation. If you are pressed for time, then attempting more than one task at once could “kill two birds with one stone”. Think eating dinner while watching TV. If you need to complete your report in time for the board meeting this evening, then being fully focused is important. Both feel productive.
It feels like juggling
Multitasking is a term I’m familiar with as I majored in Computer Engineering. The central processing unit (CPU) –aka the computer’s brain– appears to be concurrently running multiple programs at the same time. It doesn’t actually do that. The illusion is created by switching between different running programs either interval-based (for example, every microsecond), or interrupt-based (for example, when another program requires intervention). Because the processor is so powerful and fast, it feels like all apps are running at the same time.
Various studies show that the human brain cannot multitask. For example, using social media and text messaging while studying negatively affected student grades (Junco & Cotten, 2012). Imagine this scenario: I just finished the first page of my notes. I get a text message and looked. As it is about dinner this weekend, I made a reservation using another app. After replying quickly to my friend, I returned to my revision. I would have to re-read what I had gone before I can meaningfully resume. Does this sound productive?
Easier to hold one ball
What is the opposite of multitasking? Single-tasking. Instead of constantly switching attention, we solely focus on one thing. It also suggests being fully immersed in the experience. By “keeping our eye on the ball”, we also train our brain to be aware of and not react to a distraction or interruption. We are exercising a choice. With consistent mindfulness workouts, we are inserting a brief pause between a trigger and our response. In the earlier scenario, I can choose to reach a milestone during my revision and then catch up on all my text messages. Not only am I more productive but I get to enjoy the experience of each task fully, maybe even chat a little more with my friend.
“Speed is irrelevant if you are going in the wrong direction.”
— Mahatma Gandhi
Next steps: Start your mindfulness training by attending a public class, arranging for a private session, or planning for a corporate workshop.
