In our fast-paced world, we are always looking for ways to squeeze in more or to get more done. Multitasking has become a way of life. But research is showing that by doing more than one task at a time, we just become more frazzled and accomplish less than we had set out to do.
Researchers from the University of Michigan and Elmhurst College (Illinois) found that when we try to multitask, the brain "bottlenecks" the information and moves its attention back and forth between items rather than addressing them simultaneously.
"Multitasking actually reduces productivity and accuracy, creates stress and taxes the brain," says cognitive neuroscientist Sandra Bond Chapman of the Center for BrainHealth at the University of Texas at Dallas.
Research also indicates that those of us who are easily distracted are more likely to attempt to multitask. Greatist.com offers some tips on how to maintain focus and improve your productivity.
1. Turn off electronics. Put down the phone, turn off the TV, and eliminate whatever distracts you from what you are doing in the present moment.
2. Establish routines. Don't approach tasks at random. Set up a schedule so you know what you'll be working on and for how long.
3. Set goals. Start with a to-do list and plan out the steps you need to take to complete each task. When you know what comes next, you're less likely to wander off course.
4. Take breaks. Catch yourself zoning out or rereading the same paragraph multiple times? Step away from what you're working on for a few minutes - grab a cup of coffee, say hi to your coworker, or take a lap around the office.
