Let’s be honest—multitasking sounds like the ultimate productivity hack.
Who doesn’t want to answer emails, fold laundry, meal prep, and listen to a podcast all at once? It makes us feel like productivity queens!
But here’s the truth: multitasking is a lie.
A scam.
A time-wasting, brain-frying trick we’ve been conditioned to believe makes us better at getting things done when, in reality, it’s making us worse.
If you’re constantly feeling busy but somehow never making real progress, keep reading.
I’m breaking down why multitasking is ruining your productivity and what actually works instead.
The Multitasking Myth: Why It’s Making You Less Productive
You think you’re killing it by answering texts while watching a webinar and sipping coffee, but here’s what’s actually happening inside your brain:
- Task-Switching Tax: Your brain doesn’t actually do two things at once. Instead, it rapidly switches between tasks, which drains mental energy and slows you down.
- More Mistakes: Studies show multitasking makes you 40% less productive and way more error-prone. So if you keep sending “ducking” in texts, now you know why.
- Brain Burnout: Juggling too much forces your brain into overdrive, leading to stress, overwhelm, and that fun little thing called mental exhaustion.
- Nothing Gets Done Well: When you multitask, you’re not actually finishing things—you’re just half-doing a bunch of stuff. It’s like putting on mascara while driving. Just… don’t.
The Anti-Multitasking Plan: How to Actually Get Things Done
Since multitasking is a scam, what should you do instead?
Try these tried-and-true productivity hacks that actually work:
The Power of Single-Tasking (Yes, It’s a Thing!)
Want to be way more productive? Focus on one task at a time. This is called single-tasking, and it’s the secret sauce to getting more done in less time.
Try this: Set a timer for 25-50 minutes (hello, Pomodoro method), work on one task, and don’t touch your phone or email. You’ll be amazed at how much faster (and better) you complete things.
Batch Your Tasks Like a Boss
Instead of flipping between emails, texts, and TikTok every five minutes, batch similar tasks together.
Example:
- Check and reply to all emails at set times (not all day).
- Run errands in one trip instead of five.
- Meal prep for the week instead of scrambling every night.
Batching saves time and mental energy because your brain stays in the same mode instead of switching gears 500 times a day.
Prioritize Like Your Sanity Depends on It
Not everything needs to be done right now. Some tasks are urgent, some are important, and some are just… distractions in disguise.
- The 3-Step Fix:
- Write down everything you think you need to do.
- Pick your top 3 most important tasks for the day.
- Start with the hardest one first (it’s called “eating the frog” 🐸).
When you focus on priorities instead of trying to do everything, you actually get more done and feel less overwhelmed.
Block Distractions Like a Queen
Multitasking thrives on distractions. Cut them out, and you’ll instantly be more focused.
- Turn off notifications. Your group chat can wait.
- Use noise-canceling headphones. Block out chaos.
- Use a website blocker. No more accidental Instagram scrolling.
Want extra motivation? Try the “Forest” app—it grows a cute little tree when you stay off your phone.
Kill distractions, plant trees, win at life.
Final Thoughts: Ditch the Scam, Do What Works
Multitasking is not the flex we thought it was.
If you want to be actually productive (without feeling like a stressed-out mess), the key is focusing on one thing at a time.
Your new productivity mantra: Slow down, do one thing well, and watch how much more you actually accomplish.
Now go forth and conquer your to-do list—one task at a time! 💪
