In your busy, daily life, time management is important, and productivity is at a premium. So doesn’t it make sense to multi-task whenever you can? Who wouldn’t want to be doing two things in the time it takes to do one?
Well, actually … multi-tasking is often exactly the opposite of what you need to be doing when you are pressed for time. In fact, multi-tasking actually works against you when you’re trying to accomplish tasks that require focus.
Tests performed by the American Psychological Association in Washington, DC have conclusively proven that every time you shift your attention form one task to another, you lose some ground. And as your tasks become more complex, or if a task is unfamiliar to you, it’s even harder for your brain to make the transition back and forth between tasks.
And the more often you move from task to task, the more time you lose, and the more stress you create for yourself (which then also diminishes your efficiency and effectiveness).
Multi-tasking can be dangerous, too. Consider the sort of multi-tasking that we see so often now on our highways where a half second of delay or inattention can literally kill you.
The bottom line? The good news is that there are ways to increase your productivity that work in harmony with how your brain functions. Here are 2 Time Management Techniques Work Better Than Multitasking:
#1: Task Templates: Create step-by-step templates to help you complete complex but repetitive tasks. Using templates for speedy reference, you don’t have to waste energy or create unnecessary stress for yourself by trying to rely on your memory or reinvent the wheel.
So, jot down projects that need templates as you think of them. And try storing your templates on your computer. That makes them easily accessible and allows you to tweak them as needed, over time. The more you work from templates, the more uses you will find for them, and your productivity will soar!
#2: To-Do Lists: Lists are a great way to identify your tasks. You can keep them manageable when you prioritize in advance and clearly label those priorities. Remember, reduce tasks to small, workable chunks so that your lists are stress-relievers rather than stress-creators!
Only include what you can realistically accomplish each day. Use a master list for the more comprehensive list of tasks. And be sure to set aside some time at the end of each day to review and adjust your lists.
Multi-tasking can be tempting, but in reality it hampers your productivity rather than enhancing it. Instead of multi-tasking, learn to use these 2 powerful time tools in your daily life. Incorporate them into your routine. I think you’ll be pleased with how you are able to create more focus and productivity with templates and to-do lists.
So start improving your life today by making the most of your time and energy – the tools are in your hands!
And to move toward your Heart-Based Time Success, sign up for our free gift, the Finding Time Success Kit, which includes "The New Finding Time Boundary Template: 9 Simple, Sequential Steps to Find More Time and Recharge Your Energy!" Using a workbook format this powerful and practical time template helps you progress beyond disappointment and frustration. Discover that 24 hours really are enough!
Offered by Paula Eder, Ph.D., The Time Finder Expert.
Paula Eder, PhD is an internationally-known coach and published author who specializes in mentoring heart-based entrepreneurs and small business owners, from the inside out, to align their core values and energy with their time choices and behaviors so that they make more money, create more freedom, and find more time.
You can learn more about Paula’s unique, Heart-Based Time Management System™ and begin your transformational journey by signing up for her Finding Time Success Kit. Follow your heart-based path to finding time for what matters most.