How Multi-tasking Killed My Productivity

This week I have been so exhausted [already], and I couldn't figure out why. I went to bed last night wondering what I was doing wrong. Then, it dawned on me. I was trying to do way too many things and accomplishing very little. Do you ever do that or is it just me?

The Fractured Focus Trap [aka. multi-tasking]

When I get overwhelmed with how much I have to get done, it's usually because I have lost my focused approach. If we are honest with ourselves, multi-tasking is a myth. I once heard it called switch tasking, an appropriate name. That what I was doing the last few days, switch tasking. I hadn't taken the time to lay out all of my "to dos" and make conscious decisions about each task or project. Instead I was trying to do a bit of everything. What was I thinking?!

Getting Focused

There are lots of ways we can get focused. Here's mine. I set a timer for 5 minutes and list everything I need to do, no matter how small it is. Then, I highlight the items that are simply tasks that need doing. I prioritized and calendar each task. When does it need [or do I want] to be finished by?  After that, I tackle the projects. 

Tackling Projects

For projects, I take each one and create a list of tasks. Then, I prioritize the tasks. As I get to the calendaring part, I put each project due date on the calendar. Counting the days I have until a project is due, I divide the tasks up from the current day until the due date. I plan on being done a couple of days in advance because Murphy's Law is a real thing. Something always needs fixing or re-doing.  

Save time and reduce stress.

That's it. I know it sounds basic, but it really is something we forget to do so much of the time. For me, it's a process that is worth investing an hour in. It is a huge time saver and sanity saver. I am not only more focused, but I get tons more done in less time.

Want to try it? Here's a [Free] Task and Project Planning Checklist. Grab it here.

How do you get focused and efficient with your limited time? Share in the comments below.

Teach joyfully,

Lisa