The Myth of Multitasking: Why It Doesn’t Work and How to Avoid It

An orange ribbon of light cut across the slate skies hanging above the suburbs of Paris one Monday morning.

I was early to rise; not to reflect on the glories of a Parisien sunrise. I had many more pressing matters to deal with. I was out of tea and had a few loose ends to tie up workwise. After sorting out the tea crisis I started to work on three of my most urgent tasks – all at the same time. I started with a design commission that needed to be completed by the end of the week. After a while, I saved the updates and started to tackle a second task which soon gave way to a third job I needed to do. By the afternoon I switched back to my design commission. However, my multitasking efforts weren’t going anywhere. Working on three jobs at the same time was bearing little fruit. And that got me thinking: Why on earth don’t I practise what I preach? After all, I’ve facilitated enough Time & Priority Management workshops to know that multitasking is a rocky road to Nowheresville. I think most of us are guilty of multitasking. It’s often regarded as a virtue and that’s because we believe that juggling multiple tasks at once will help us get more done in less time. However, research shows that multitasking is not half as effective as it may seem.

The Science Behind Multitasking

Studies consistently show that multitasking reduces overall efficiency. Research from Stanford University in 2009 found that people who are heavy multitaskers perform worse on tasks requiring focus and attention compared to those who focus on one task at a time. Multitaskers also have a harder time filtering out irrelevant information, switching between tasks and maintaining focus on the tasks at hand (Ophir, Nass, & Wagner, 2009).

Cognitive Overload

The brain is not designed to perform multiple high-level tasks simultaneously. When we attempt to multitask, the brain shifts between tasks, creating a “cognitive bottleneck” where attention is divided. A study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology in 2001 revealed that task-switching can lead to a 40% reduction in productivity. This constant switching also leads to mental fatigue (Rubinstein, Meyer, & Evans, 2001).

Impact on Memory and Learning

Multitasking can impair both short-term and long-term memory. When people split their attention between tasks, they encode less information into their memory. The American Psychological Association (APA) published findings in 2006 reporting that multitasking can negatively affect learning outcomes and retention, especially when trying to absorb complex information (Pashler, 2006).

Decreased Quality of Work

When individuals multitask, they’re more likely to make mistakes. A study from the University of London in 2005 found that multitasking can temporarily lower a person’s IQ by as much as ten points, similar to the effects of staying up all night. Believe me – I can’t afford to lose ten points! This decline in cognitive performance affects the accuracy and quality of work produced (Eysenck, 2005).

The Dangers of Multitasking in Daily Life

In daily life, the negative effects of multitasking can manifest in many ways. For example, texting while driving has been shown to slow reaction times and increase the risk of accidents, as it forces the brain to split attention between two tasks that require focus. The National Safety Council reported in 2012 that using a mobile phone while driving increases the likelihood of an accident by four times. In a work environment, multitasking can lead to missed deadlines, reduced creativity, and burnout.

Now we have looked at the science, let’s take a look at what we can do to avoid multitasking.

7 Practical Tips to Avoid Multitasking

1.????? Prioritise Tasks Using the Eisenhower Matrix

Start by prioritising tasks based on their urgency and importance. The Eisenhower Matrix, introduced by former U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower, divides tasks into four categories: urgent and important, important but not urgent, urgent but not important, and neither urgent nor important. By focusing on important tasks first, you can tackle them with your full attention.

2.????? Time Blocking

Schedule specific blocks of time to focus on individual tasks. For example, dedicate 90 minutes to writing, followed by a short break. Research from Desktime in 2014 showed that people who take regular breaks are more productive than those who work for extended periods without rest. This method, often referred to as the Pomodoro Technique, helps improve focus and prevents the temptation to switch tasks.

3.????? Limit Distractions

Identify common distractions, such as phone notifications, social media, or email, and minimise them during work sessions. A study from the University of California, Irvine, in 2015 found that it takes an average of 23 minutes to regain focus after being distracted (Mark, Gudith, & Klocke, 2015). Turn off non-essential notifications, set your phone to "Do Not Disturb," and create a distraction-free environment.

4.????? Practise Mindfulness and Focus Training

Engaging in mindfulness exercises such as meditation can help train the brain to focus on one thing at a time. Mindfulness has been shown to increase concentration and cognitive control. Research conducted by the University of Washington in 2012 found that individuals who practice mindfulness showed improved concentration and a greater ability to avoid distractions (Levy, Wobbrock, Kaszniak, & Ostergren, 2012).

5.????? Batch Similar Tasks Together

Group similar tasks that require the same type of thinking or tools. For instance, schedule all your emails or phone calls in one block of time. A 2010 study published in Harvard Business Review indicated that batching tasks reduces the time lost to task-switching and improves productivity (Davenport, 2010).

6.????? Set Realistic Goals

Instead of trying to complete multiple tasks at once, break your day into manageable chunks with clear, specific goals for each period. Goal-setting theory, developed by Locke and Latham in 1990, suggests that setting challenging but realistic goals can improve focus and performance while reducing the urge to multitask.

7.????? Take Regular Breaks

Working for long periods without breaks can lead to cognitive overload, making multitasking more tempting. Schedule short breaks to recharge. Research from the National Institutes of Health in 2011 showed that taking breaks increases overall productivity and helps maintain cognitive focus (Smallwood & Schooler, 2011).

The idea that multitasking is a useful skill has been debunked by years of research. Multitasking not only reduces productivity, but it also impairs memory, increases the likelihood of errors, and leads to cognitive overload. In a world filled with distractions, the ability to concentrate on a single task is becoming a rare and valuable skill. Start implementing these tips today to improve your focus, boost productivity, and enhance the quality of your work.

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