Multi-tasking has been a debatable subject for some time now. To multi-task is the ability to execute more than one task at the same time. In the past, the concept was thought of as being a source of increased productivity. By performing multiple tasks at once, you can get more done in a shorter amount of time. Then as the time management experts started really looking into it, they determined that it can be a counter-productive effort. Their reasoning is that when you perform more than one task at a time, you are not giving each task the attention and brainpower that it deserves. So, each task will not be performed as efficiently as if you were to focus on one task at a time. That makes perfect sense to me, and I agree with this logic, however, there are some instances when multi-tasking can save some time.
Some examples of these time saving activities are listed below. I’m sure you know of others that are not on this list and I would love to see you post them here.
• Performing a mundane task while watching television, or listening to music – such as mending, or purging expired coupons from your organizer.
• Tasks that don’t require creativity or exceptional brainpower.
• Performing a routine task while thinking about possible solutions to an issue you need to resolve.
• Taking your dog for a walk provides exercise for you and your canine friend.
Another thing to consider when you are looking for ways to double up on tasks is safety. There has been, and still is a lot of media coverage about texting and driving, or using your cell phone while driving. Both of these activities should not be done while driving, it is way too dangerous! Responding to that text message or making that call can wait. Check out the statistics below to ‘drive’ home the point that multi-tasking by texting or calling while driving is a dangerous proposition.
• When a driver texts while driving, his reaction time will decrease by 35%.
• When texting, steering capability goes down by a tremendous amount; 91%.
• A driver is twenty three times more likely to get into a car accident while driving and texting.
• Drivers are also six times as likely to get into a car accident while dialing a number into their cellular devices.
Multi-tasking can be an effective time saver when you choose the right tasks, and saving time does increase productivity. So, there are times when it’s ok to multi-task.
