Digital Wellbeing: 10 Tips to Stop Multitasking

Breaking the habit of?multitasking, especially when checking emails constantly, is essential for improving focus, productivity, and overall well-being.

Last week, we gave you seven reasons multitasking is harmful to your health, including impaired memory, decreased attention and focus, reduced problem-solving ability, decreased productivity, and increased stress and anxiety.

Here are some strategies to help you stop?multitasking.? Select a strategy, put it into practice, and once you've become comfortable with this new approach, adopt another one. Don't overwhelm yourself with too much change too quickly.

1. Set Specific Times for Checking?Emails?Designate certain times during the day to check and respond to?emails, such as once in the morning, once after lunch, and once before the end of the workday. Stick to these times to avoid constant interruptions.
2. Turn Off Notifications?Disable?email?notifications on your computer and mobile devices. Without the constant pinging, you'll be less tempted to check your inbox frequently.
3. Use the Pomodoro Technique?Work in focused intervals, typically 25 minutes, followed by a 5-minute break. This method helps maintain concentration on a single?task?and reduces the urge to?multitask.
4. Prioritize Tasks?Make a to-do list and rank tasks by importance. Focus on completing one?task?at a time, starting with the most critical, before moving on to the next.
5. Create a Dedicated Workspace?Set up a specific area for work that is free from distractions. Having a clutter-free and organized workspace can help you stay focused on the?task?at hand.
6. Practice Mindfulness?Incorporate mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, into your daily routine. This can improve your ability to concentrate and stay present in the moment.
7. Use?Task?Management Tools?Utilize tools like Trello, Asana, or Todoist to organize and track your tasks. These tools can help you stay focused on one?task?at a time and provide a sense of accomplishment as you complete each item.
8. Batch Similar Tasks?Group similar tasks together and tackle them in a single session. For example, set aside specific times for making phone calls, responding to?emails, or conducting research.
9. Set Boundaries?Let colleagues and clients know your preferred communication times and methods. Establishing clear boundaries can reduce interruptions and help you maintain focus.
10. Reflect and Adjust?Regularly evaluate your productivity and make adjustments to your strategies as needed. Reflecting on what works and what doesn't can help you fine-tune your approach to minimizing?multitasking. ?

The Fair Media Council Screen-Time Tracker Journal & Guide to Digital Wellness offers more tips and guidance to build healthy habits. See below.?

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