The Myth of Multitasking: Why Doing More Isn’t Always Better for You or Your Nonprofit

Ever find yourself responding to donor emails while attending a meeting, or juggling between different projects? It feels like you’re being productive, right? But here's the truth—multitasking might be giving you an illusion of efficiency when, in fact, you're getting nowhere fast.

Some (ok, a lot of!) research shows that multitasking can actually be a productivity killer. In this article, we'll break down why multitasking isn’t the superpower you might think it is, and what we can do to work smarter instead for ourselves, and for our organizations.

What Is Multitasking, Really?

Definition of Multitasking

Multitasking involves trying to handle more than one task simultaneously or switching rapidly between tasks. This can range from answering emails during meetings to toggling between different projects throughout the day.

The Cognitive Cost

Our brains aren’t wired to do two complex things at once. When we switch tasks, we experience "switching costs"—the mental energy lost every time we change our focus. These costs add up, making us less efficient overall.

Why Multitasking Lowers Productivity

The Myth

Why do so many believe multitasking is productive? It’s because it gives the illusion of efficiency—we feel busier, hence more productive.

The Reality

The truth is, multitasking increases errors, stress, and fatigue, leading to longer completion times. Research from Stanford University shows that heavy multitaskers perform worse in filtering irrelevant information. Picture this—you’re checking your phone during a meeting. Not only are you distracted, but the quality of your work also suffers on both fronts.

The Effect on Mental Well-being

Cognitive Overload

Multitasking leads to mental exhaustion. Constantly shifting gears means your brain uses more energy, causing quicker fatigue.

Increased Stress

Multitasking can elevate stress levels as people feel constantly pulled in multiple directions, managing numerous tasks.

Impact on Creativity and Deep Work

It prevents you from reaching the "flow" state—the deep focus needed for innovative thinking and problem-solving.

Why Single-Tasking Is the Better Alternative

Focus on One Thing at a Time

Single-tasking or monotasking allows for better focus and higher-quality results. By dedicating your attention to one task, you enhance your productivity and outcome.

Time Management Improvement

Working on one task for a set period (like in the Pomodoro Technique) can boost productivity while reducing stress.

Long-term Impact

Single-tasking fosters deeper thinking, stronger memory retention, and a greater sense of accomplishment.

Actionable Tips to Break Free from Multitasking

Try Time-Blocking

Use time-blocking to focus on one task for a set period (e.g., 25 minutes), followed by a break.

Turn Off Notifications

Silence non-essential notifications to reduce distractions during work periods.

Set Specific Goals for Each Task

Break larger tasks into smaller, manageable pieces to make single-tasking feel more achievable.

Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness techniques can train your brain to stay present and focused on one thing at a time.

Conclusion

To sum up, multitasking is a myth that can harm both your productivity and well-being. Give single-tasking a try for just one day and notice the difference in your focus and output.

In a world that demands constant juggling, the real power comes from slowing down and giving your full attention to one task at a time.