Multitasking- When It Works and When It Doesn’t
Let’s talk about Multitasking today. But first, from my trusted source Wikipedia…
The term “multitasking” was originated in the computer engineering industry. It was used to reference the ability of a microprocessor to apparently process several tasks simultaneously.
That spun off… Human Multitasking
Human multitasking is the performance by an individual of appearing to handle more than one task at the same time. An example of multitasking is listening to a radio interview while typing an email. Some believe that multitasking can result in time wasted due to human context switching and apparently causing more errors due to insufficient attention. Other research illustrates our brains are capable dealing with certain “dual multiple tasks” at the same time.
It is useful to point out, “appearing to handle.” Something to think about. As with most things it comes down to using it properly and wisely…
This morning I pushed my own multitasking limits.
After a quick morning workout I went into the kitchen, opened the fridge and simultaneously took out everything I needed for my breakfast, my wife’s breakfast, the kids’ breakfast and kid’s lunches and snacks for the day ahead. I lined it all up and then realized I forgot to drag the garbage down to the end of driveway. Bacon was on the menu that morning so I turned on the stove and let the pan heat as I arranged the kids’ lunches. The lunches were packed and the pan was hot so I threw the bacon on. Then I grabbed the garbage bags out of the kitchen cans and went into the garage. “Why was there more garbage this morning than usual?” The holiday weekend I figured… “Gonna have to split this up so I don’t burn the bacon”…
Two garbage cans to the curb and two to go I hustled back up the driveway ( a bonus workout). Then I washed my hands, really I did, and flipped the bacon. It was just about done so I decided to wait for it. While I was waiting (no standing around!) I grabbed a couple of slices of bread and popped them in to the toaster. “Good, the coffee is almost done!” So I grabbed my mug and added the cream and a little sugar. (Yes I put the cream and sugar in first, you should try it some time, no stirring needed.) I Poured some OJ too. Then…
Off with the bacon and on with the eggs. “Feels like an over-easy morning.” Eggs are cooking now so here’s my chance. I ran back out to the garage and then drug the last two garbage cans to the curb. Ran back in ( another bonus workout) and washed my hands. “Yes! Just in time to slide the eggs off the pan.” They slide off so gracefully when cooked in bacon grease! The toast was ready too. I poured my coffee and brought it plus my full plate, my OJ and my morning newspaper to the table. I ate while flipping through the headlines.
Multitasking works sometimes. But be careful when and where you use it. So here are some ideas and maybe even some do’s and don’ts…
Look at the consequences…
Always better to focus 100%! But when the consequences are not server or life or death why not have fun and multitask? The consequences of over-cooking my eggs are nothing compared to losing control of my car. So texting while driving is a no- no. Taking a second to finish writing an email before you start a phone conversation a better idea than trying to carry on a phone conversation while you’re writing an email. The consequences of a damaged relationship are not worth it.
Good times to multitask…
Read while you’re in the bathroom taking care of the greater number, you’ll be amazed how many books you can read in a year. Yes, if you want to barrow a book from my library you’ve been warned. They have all been in the bathroom with me! I also like listening to informational or inspirational audios while I go for a walk. Other times it’s good to just go for a walk and do some thinking.
A good rule to follow…
Only multitask when you only need your mind for one of the tasks. Thinking that you or I can focus on two items at once that require our undivided attention is simply delusional. Oh, and just to point it out to you… My multitasking morning was powered without coffee. My first cup of the day is always with breakfast.
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