In the productivity-driven society we live in, multitasking is expected.
Being able to listen to a conference call and check your emails at the same time is applauded, having a jam-packed schedule is praised.
While we cannot shy away from the individualist, capitalistic methods that guide American productivity, we can choose to approach it in a new way.
That new way is monotasking.
Yes, you read that right.
Instead of multitasking, monotasking is the indubitable way to tackle our to-do list.
When we multitask, our complete and undivided attention is, well, divided.
When we divide our attention and action between multiple tasks, we are subconsciously operating at a fraction of our potential.
Dr. Travis Bradberry cited a study that found multitasking lowers attention span, makes it harder to recall information, and weakens the anterior cingulate cortex.
With effects as serious as brain damage, multitasking is soon becoming a thing of the past.
While I too used to marvel at my ability to watch TV and complete homework assignments at the same time, I now understand the benefit of devoting, or at least trying to devote, my complete and undivided attention to the task at hand.
If I am going to make myself a cup of coffee, I am going to enjoy the process and sip it gratefully.
If I am going to commit 1 hour of my day to writing a paper for one of my classes, you best bet I will be sitting down and focusing on that, and only that.
Monotasking can induce feelings of presence, centeredness, and appreciation for the current moment.
I suggest you try it out.
