#211: Single-minded multi-tasking

Have you heard the one about the Jack of all trades who became the master of none? You have? Then why are you still so keen on multi-tasking?

Multi-tasking does not work. Mmmaybe it does. What I mean is that multi-tasking does not work very well.

No, that’s still not right. Hang on, let me stop watching the news for a minute and focus on what I’m saying. Here goes. Multi-tasking works well enough if the outcomes of the different tasks that you are doing at once don’t matter much to you.

However, if the different outcomes do matter, then maybe you should give each task the single minded focus it deserves.

Single-minded focus can deliver two unexpected bonuses. Not only are you likely to get each task done quicker, you tend to produce better quality outcomes as well.

However, if outcomes don’t matter to you, then by all means, talk and drive at the same time.

Drat, now I’ve missed the news.


I’m JamesMcIntosh@nonsenseatwork.com

Copyright: 2008 James Henry McIntosh

James can be heard on Public Radio: Monday - 7:19am and Saturday - 8:19am
88.9 FM WCVE, Richmond VA | 89.1 FM WCNV, Heathsville VA | 90.1 FM WMVE, Chase City VA