The only way two tasks that require thought can be completed simultaneously is to have two systems processing the information required to actually complete the steps of that task.
So many people believe that they “multi-task” when the truth of the matter is that they can only do one thing at a time. People who argue that they’re are good multi-taskers are in denial. They are simply able to juggle more than one task at a time, but the completion of that task still happens in sequence.
“I’m a good multi-tasker.” No, really, you’re not. You’re good at managing a complex series of events that lead to completing multiple tasks in no particular order, and if those tasks that you do are never the same, then you’ll never have an opportunity to nail down the order of events enough to get good at performing them.
There are plenty of things that our brains do without us thinking about it, but that cannot be attributed to “multi-tasking skills.” That’s just reflex, and learned behavior. In order to ride your unicycle to complete a task, you need to be able to ride without falling off. You could argue that riding a unicycle and delivering a package is multi-tasking, in which case, you’d be wrong, because riding a bike is not a task that you have set out to complete. It’s a function of the task, and you’re so good at it, that you don’t have to think about it. If you did think about it, you’d probably miss your first turn, or crash into someone.
Give the good ole idea of multi-tasking a shot. Have someone tell you a story while you write an e-mail to a friend. See which one has more holes in it, your e-mail, or their story, once you’re done.
Like I mentioned before, the only way to multi-task is to have at least two or more systems processing information at the same time, like a computer with two processors, or a person with two brains. Since none of us have two brains without a corresponding symbiotic relationship with another person attached to our body, it’s not ever going to happen, consciously.
The interesting part about this is that those who recognize that they cannot do more than one thing at a time often take the time to complete what they’re working on before they start something new. Not only will they complete it faster, because they have focus, but the end result will be better than if they had been distracted by multiple tasks. It takes practice, and organization to start two tasks before finishing one of them.
Rather than doing a little bit at a time. Do it all, then move to the next task. This can also be seen in the principles applied in accordance with Dave Ramsey’s baby steps to financial success. Focus on one step at a time. Start it, finish it. You cannot save money while you’re wasting money. It’s just not possible. If you’re pouring money into your 401K, but the gains are being eaten up by interest payments to the bank, then you’re losing ground. Stop one, and focus on the other until it’s done!
Stop this myth of multi-tasking. It’s not real. In fact, I think it’s an excuse for chaos.
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