One of the most common traits that I've always seen in candidates' resumes is "Ability to multitask". For each time, I really wonder why people always pride themselves as multitaskers? The myth of multitasking takes over a huge part of entrepreneur culture that makes everyone believe that they can only be successful in their career if only they know how to multitask.
However, does multitasking really work? Does multitasking equal efficiency optimization and productivity?
Break the myth of multitasking
The truth is, multitasking only works if those tasks are second nature to you. For instance, if you're driving, you can listen to classical music at the same time since listening to music doesn't require heavy brain process. However, if you're listening to Google Maps telling you where to go, it's mostly impossible to listen to a song with lyrics at the same time.
When your are prone to multitasking, you might damage your brain and the quality of your work as well. According to some studies from University of Sussex in UK and University of London, multitaskers have less brain density than the one who doesn't multitask. Also, research participants who multitasked experienced lower IQ score than the ones who do not.
How to appropriately increase productivity without multitasking?
1.Set up your own goal for each day.
Instead of trying to squeeze everything on a Friday afternoon and "multitask" your work, you might want to set up your daily goal and optimize the resources for one day only. Don't try to overachieve or outdo your task list. Staying consistent is the key.
2.Track your progress
There are thousands of to-do list app that you can use (personally, I use Trello Kanban board and Quire nested task list to track my work) to better manage your work. If you spend too much time on a task, try to figure out what the obstacles are and improve the productivity.
3.Create your own time block
What I enjoy doing during my 9 hours at work is to create the time block for each task. I will move all of the tasks that need my full attention to morning from 9-11am when my morning dose of caffeine just kicked in and I can focus on those tasks. In the afternoon from 4-5pm is reserved for routine tasks.
Hope you will stop thinking multitasking is an asset to write in the resume :)
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