The Myth of Multitasking: You Can't Do Two Things at Once

I’ve had this discussion with many co-workers including the colleague that boasted she could juggle 23 things at the same time. In today's fast-paced world, the ability to multitask is often touted as a valuable skill. We pride ourselves on being able to perform multiple tasks simultaneously, whether it's checking emails while on a conference call or texting while walking. But is multitasking really as effective as we believe it to be, or is it merely a myth?

The truth is, multitasking, as we commonly understand it, is indeed a myth. Our brains are not designed to focus on multiple complex tasks at the same time. Instead, what we perceive as multitasking is actually our brains rapidly switching attention between different tasks:

• Our brain is a monotasker
• Two things at once not possible
• Correct term is task switching

Research has shown that attempting to multitask with tasks that require cognitive effort can lead to reduced productivity and increased errors. When we divide our attention between multiple tasks, our brains become overloaded, leading to decreased performance overall. It's like trying to juggle too many balls at once – eventually, one or more are bound to drop.

Moreover, the constant switching between tasks can take a toll on our mental energy and increase feelings of stress and overwhelm. Each time we shift our focus from one task to another, there is a cognitive cost associated with it. Downsides of multitasking include:

• Overtakes the cognitive system
• Increases stress levels, anxiety and blood pressure
• We pay a “switch cost” because we aren’t doing anything at 100%

So, if multitasking is indeed a myth, what should we do instead? The key lies in prioritization and focus. Rather than attempting to do everything at once, we should prioritize tasks based on importance and dedicate our full attention to each one sequentially.

By focusing on one task at a time, we can achieve better results in less time. This approach, known as "single-tasking," allows us to dive deep into the task at hand, harnessing our full cognitive resources to accomplish it more effectively. It also reduces the mental strain associated with constantly switching between tasks, leading to greater clarity of thought and improved decision-making.

Of course, there are certain activities where multitasking is feasible, such as performing simple, repetitive tasks that require minimal cognitive effort. However, when it comes to tasks that demand our full attention and concentration, single-tasking is the way to go.

While the allure of multitasking may be tempting, it's essential to recognize it for what it truly is – a myth. By embracing the principles of single-tasking and prioritization, we can enhance our productivity, reduce stress, and ultimately, achieve better outcomes in both our personal and professional lives.

Note: If you enjoyed this article, check out my award-winning and bestselling HR book Pay Matters: The Art and Science of Employee Compensation.

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