Multitasking is something we all do and feel more equipped to do with smartphones. The next time you are sitting in traffic, look around you. Nearly everyone is looking at their phones. But rather than doing you good at work, experts says multitasking is having the opposite effect. According to Psychology Today, it is impossible for the brain to multitask unless you are pairing a mental task with a rote physical task (like walking and talking). Rather, psychologists call multitasking “switching between tasks” reducing productivity. At Pacific Office Automation, we aim to provide equipment that multitask to help reduce personal workload and switching between tasks. Here are six problems with multitasking to be aware of:
1. Different tasks require different mindsets. Experts say it's better to batch activities, complete them and then move on. For instance, set aside a chunk of time to check your email.
2. It causes you to make more mistakes. The more you juggle between tasks, the more chances there of mixing up projects and making an error.
3. It stresses you out and makes you agitated. Finishing one task first and moving on to the next can give you a sense of accomplishment. Having multiple tasks unfinished can be stressful.
4. It zaps your creativity. Psychologists have identified the pre-frontal cortex is responsible for creating and putting ideas together, but it can only process one thing at a time.
5. It disrupts your workflow. You can’t “get into the zone” and focus on one project.
6. It hampers productivity. Experts believe that the amount of time your brain wastes switching back and forth between tasks can add up to a 40 percent loss of your productivity.
At Pacific Office Automation, our primary goal is to improve office productivity. We offer workflow solutions that minimize disruptions so people can stay focused on their core tasks. Contact us today to find out how we can help your office run more smoothly.