What is multitasking scientifically and what to do with it

2024 Author: Malcolm Clapton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:44

The word "multitasking" was first used in the 60s in the data processing industry. It described the ability of a computer to process multiple tasks at the same time. But then this term began to be applied to people.

In data processing, multitasking is not the execution of multiple actions in parallel. It's just that in this mode, more than one task is being processed at the same time. In this case, one task is directly processed, while the other is waiting for its turn. Switching the CPU from one task to another is called context switching, and the illusion of parallel execution occurs when there are frequent switches.

Multitasking is just an illusion. In reality, we just switch from one activity to another over and over again.

Our brains simply cannot process more than two complex tasks at the same time. This was discovered by scientists from the National Institute for Health and Medical Research (INSERM) in Paris.

During the experiment, they asked participants to do two things at the same time and monitored their brain activity using functional magnetic resonance imaging. It turned out that when two tasks are performed simultaneously, the brain "bifurcates": two areas (two frontal lobes) are activated Divided Representation of Concurrent Goals in the Human Frontal Lobes. …

Then the scientists asked the participants to perform three tasks at the same time. In this case, the participants constantly forgot about one of the three tasks and were more likely to make mistakes. It turns out, although we can switch between two tasks without any problems, we can no longer do more tasks (simply because we have only two frontal lobes).

Cost of constant switching

We switch from one activity to another due to the executive functions of the brain. They control thought processes and determine how, when, and in what sequence tasks are completed.

Execution control takes place in two stages.

• Change of purpose - the decision to do not one, but another matter.
• Activating a new role - moving from the rules of the previous task to the rules of the new task.

It can take only a few tenths of a second to switch between tasks, but this time gradually accumulates, especially if you switch frequently. In fact, we are working more slowly.

Of course, sometimes it doesn't matter at all: for example, when we are simultaneously cleaning and watching TV. But in situations where safety is important, such as driving, even these fractions of a second can be decisive.

Cons of multitasking

Multitasking lowers productivity

As mentioned above, in multitasking mode, we simply switch from one task to another. Because of this, we work more slowly, because each time we have to remember all the information regarding the case we are switching to. At the same time, our brain gets tired more than with concentrated work on one thing. Plus, by constantly switching from one to the other, we make more mistakes.

Multitasking makes it difficult to concentrate

When multitasking becomes a habit, it becomes very difficult to focus on one thing. Usually, our brain ignores some incoming signals in order to reduce the load and devote all the energy to solving one problem. But getting used to multitasking, he begins to get confused and cannot always determine what information is important and what to ignore.

Multitasking kills willpower

In multitasking mode, our attention is dispersed, and decision-making and critical thinking slows down. The brain gets tired faster, which affects willpower.

Therefore, there is a snowball effect: due to a decline in willpower, we cannot do anything and feel unhappy, and negative emotions further deprive us of motivation.

How to regain the ability to concentrate

1. Do the most important thing in the morning

In the evening, make a to-do list for the next day and do the most important thing in the first few hours of the day. Then you don't have to think about this important matter all day and worry about whether you will be in time for everything.

2. Remove all distractions from yourself

For example, if you're usually distracted by your phone, turn it off until you're done. If you spend a lot of time on social media or funny YouTube videos, block those sites.

3. Think strategically

We usually confuse important matters with urgent ones. Therefore, it seems to us that we need to do everything as quickly as possible and be in time as much as possible.

By thinking strategically and planning ahead, you will begin to understand much more clearly what is important to you. And knowing what is especially important at one time or another, and fully focusing on it, you will do much more than if you will be sprayed on several things at once.

4. Get some rest

Take a break from work or any other activity for a while. For example, use the Pomodoro Technique for short breaks while working, and be sure to take at least one day off per week. To recover and relax, try breathing exercises or meditation, and don't forget about the most important way to rest - sleep.

How to reduce the need for multitasking at work

1. Always start with preparation

If you take on a new project without the necessary information and a clear plan, you can get stuck halfway. This often happens, especially when we, without completing one thing, take on the next.

2. Reduce the number of open projects

Do not start new activities until you have finished the previous ones.

3. Develop a system of priorities

Each member of the team must be clear about their role at one time or another. Therefore, always prioritize and try to define your main task for each day or week.

Finally

There is nothing wrong with multitasking when absolutely necessary. But if it starts to spread to all areas of your life, ask yourself: “Is multitasking so useful in this area? What happens if I take the opposite approach and focus on one thing?"

Try the tips above to break out of the multitasking trap.