We all like to work on different things at the same time, but is it really such a good idea?
Multitasking can be a very good asset if you know how to do it right. But isn't it better to just stick to doing one main thing?
Independent of how we perceive or what exact definition we give to multitasking, it's still all the same. According to the most recognized definition,
"multitasking is the performance by an individual of appearing to handle more than one task at the same time."
What I mean about multitasking is what was just brought out PLUS working on different tasks during the day. Tasks like writing, designing, managing people, programming, promoting. And all of it within the same day. All by yourself. As a small business owner this probably sounds like a familiar situation to you.
I have found from my own experience that while in certain situations or days, even years, you do need to be able to multitask (independent of the exact definition) but if possible, don't.
I like variety, I like working with different things. I like the option that when I get tired of doing one thing, I can switch to another. Or I like to do multiple things at a time, especially if one of them is boring.
But I have found that if you're working with so many different things, whether at the same time or within the same day/week/month, you often end up not doing any of the things too well, you end up being unable to give your 100% to any of those tasks. Some things you can mix with each other, some things you can't. In my case, mixing programming with more creative things such as writing or promoting isn't a good idea.
Human brain works similar to your computer in some ways. If you open up a lot of programs at the same time, switch between them and do it all day long, your computer starts to work slower, especially if some of the software you have opened are more resource extensive. Or if one day it's okay, then if you don't close your computer for the night, some of the programs start to work slower the next day. And that's exactly how we function - even if we manage it for a while, we tend to start putting more of our time and effort into some things while we leave other things unintended. And the results start to suffer in that area.
Couple of weeks ago I decided I will put off programming and design part of my job and rather concentrate more on the creative part of my job. And so far, I'm rather happy with the results.
Whether you want to multitask or not, it's your decision of course, but you should think about it. Which way are you more productive?
PS: Yes, I am a man and there's a little joke about men and multitasking. Basically it says that hands-free for mobiles was invented because men can't do two things at a time - drive a car and hold their mobiles but...isn't that true in case of all people? If they talk and drive at the same time, they can only put 100% of their attention into one of them or 50% into each...thus already lowering the quality of their driving or quality of their thoughts while speaking.
