Overcoming the performance declines of multitasking

In this fast-paced society, we’re impressed by those who have the ability to juggle a number of tasks simultaneously. But this highly praised (and highly prized) skill can come at quite a high cost to performance. Our attention is limited and is best used when focused on a single task. By dividing your attention between different projects, mental resources are diminished, which could lead to a lackluster performance in one or more areas. Studies show that when attention is divided, performance decreases.

In light of emerging technologies, our focus is being challenged now more than ever. New research has shown that, with technological devices competing for our attention, the ability to focus is grossly overestimated. This means that it’s difficult to focus on what you’re typing on the computer while the television is on, and to add fuel to the fire, you don’t even realize how unfocused you are on your task. Think about how many times this situation may apply to you—using your laptop with the television on and your cell phone at your side. Not to mention the family members in the same room who want you to pay attention to them! During these periods, our attention is being stretched to the limits, and chances are that something (or someone) is being neglected.

There are strategies, however, that can help you take on your huge list of tasks. In a perfect world, high-priority tasks come one after another, but in reality these events often come all at once. When this happens, create a list to tackle each problem by its priority. Remember, this list can be arranged and re-arranged. Make sure, however, that you’re making progress on the list. Being able to focus on a single task is hard to do in the face of other priorities, but taking on one task at a time in an efficient and focused manner will help you perform optimally.

Another strategy is the practice of mindfulness. This skill trains your mind to wade through distractions and focus on relevant information. For an overview of how attention works and how we can pay better attention using mindfulness, view this short video by attention scientist Amishi Jha.

Remember, our attention is limited. In order to perform optimally, you have to keep your head in the game, too!