Mastering the art of multitasking has become a sense of pride for many. The skill, listed as an attribute for productivity, is a sought-after job skill on many job postings on Indeed. So, is it really an art? Is it your normal way of life? Can we really do many things at once and do the task well?
Juggling Tasks Versus Multitasking
Earl K. Miller, a neuroscience professor at MIT, states, “You can’t multitask”. Our brains are wired to do just one cognitively demanding thing at a time. We are not really multitasking but jumping rapidly from one thing to the next- task-switching. Juggling tasks makes us less creative and more prone to errors. The quality of our work suffers and the risks of accidents in the home, work, gym, or car increase.
Monotasking for Better Results
It’s been said if you want something done, ask a busy person to do it. Are busy people just good at multitasking, or are they just very organized and monotask – doing one thing at a time? On the whole, organized people are skilled at focusing on one task at a time and do not rush the process. They set time aside for breaks such as a coffee break, a calm walk, or a stroll. Taking breaks from electronics in this fast-paced day and age is not always easy. Unplugging from cell phones and computers even for a short amount of time, will create a relaxed and calmer state of mind. This will help you to focus on the task at hand to become a monotasker!
Multitasking and Caregiver Burnout
As caregivers, we often take care of our spouses, loved ones, and children first, leaving ourselves for last. If we are caring for elderly relatives, the challenge of juggling their needs as well as ours can be overwhelming and demanding. We need to realize we can’t do it all. Multitasking can only lead to burnout, exhaustion, and anxiety to get everything done. A step back is needed to assess how to ask for help and delegate certain tasks to your relatives. Daily tasks need to be prioritized in an organized manner. Only then will there be time left over to take care of ourselves.
Care Routines and Sustaining Routines
Deciding how you will be able to sustain this “new normal” and avoid going back to the daily fast-paced, multi-tasking routine is critical for a productive daily routine that is more relaxed, efficient, and beneficial to you and those you care for.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical, healthcare, or financial advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for medical advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has been providing excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help the elderly and disabled live safely and independently; while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information contact us by clicking here, or call (718)-979-6900.
