Mastering Single-Tasking for Enhanced Productivity and Stress Relief

Elizabeth Scott, PhD, is a renowned author, educator, and award-winning blogger specializing in stress management, positive psychology, emotional wellness, and relationships.

For a long time, I embraced multitasking as the go-to productivity hack. The allure of doubling output by juggling multiple tasks simultaneously is tempting, especially in today’s fast-paced world where everyone seems busy.

With endless responsibilities and limited hours each day, it often feels necessary to handle everything at once. However, multitasking can undermine both your efficiency and productivity. If this sounds familiar, shifting to single-tasking might be the game changer you need.

Ultimately, the most effective and least stressful approach to tackling your daily tasks is often to give each one your full attention, one at a time.

How Multitasking Impacts Your Brain

Switching rapidly between tasks or trying to handle several simultaneously is commonly called multitasking, but it can leave your focus scattered and reduce your efficiency.

This happens because your brain requires time to reorient itself each time you change focus. Every switch demands mental energy and time to refocus, which can drain your resources and prolong task completion compared to focusing on tasks individually.

Effective Multitasking Scenarios

Multitasking works best when you combine a mentally demanding task with a physical or automatic activity that requires minimal focus. This way, most of your attention stays on the primary task while the secondary task proceeds effortlessly. Examples include:

• Listening to music or audiobooks while exercising
• Engaging in casual conversations during routine house chores

When Multitasking Falls Short

Multitasking becomes counterproductive when juggling two or more tasks that demand conscious thought. Tasks best done separately include:

• Listening to audiobooks or music while reading or writing
• Conversing casually while completing homework (unless discussing the homework itself)
• Handling work assignments during unrelated meetings

Strategies to Embrace Single-Tasking

If multitasking dominates your routine, consider stepping back to try single-tasking. You don’t have to abandon multitasking completely, but experimenting with focused attention can improve your well-being and productivity.

Prioritize Your Focus

When tempted to overload yourself, allow yourself to select the most urgent task and dedicate your full attention to it. Planning when to address other tasks later is part of this approach (see the "chunking" technique below). If your to-do list is overwhelming, consider reducing your commitments.

Consistently focusing on one task at a time can save time and reduce stress, making it a valuable habit to cultivate.

Apply the "Chunking" Method

Chunking is a powerful time management technique where you allocate specific time blocks to concentrate on one task while minimizing distractions. Grouping similar tasks—like handling all emails in one session—boosts efficiency and prevents the time lost in switching between different activities.

This approach fosters deeper focus and helps you accomplish more in less time.

Streamline Your Schedule

If you’re constantly multitasking due to an overloaded agenda, single-tasking can help by reducing the total time spent on tasks. Additionally, consider cutting back on non-essential commitments to lighten your load.

Identify habits or obligations that drain your schedule without significant benefits. Prioritize your tasks and eliminate or delegate what’s unnecessary to feel less pressured and more in control.

While this may require honest conversations with friends, family, or colleagues, most will understand your need to create space for yourself. Don’t hesitate to advocate for your well-being and ensure you have downtime to recharge.

• Living Well
• Stress Management
• Productivity Techniques

By Elizabeth Scott, PhD
Elizabeth Scott is an accomplished author, educator, and award-winning blogger focusing on stress management, positive psychology, emotional wellness, and relationships.

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