I have this false perception that the more tasks I take, the smarter and the better I become. It was an old fashioned idea that enslaved me since I started my current role as a process coordinator. Naturally, I have a lot on my plate but I felt like I need to take in some more in order to prove my competence.
Unfortunately, it proved me wrong. Nowadays, it is extremely important that we value the effort that we put in the work that we do, hence, work smart.
Multitasking is one of the abilities that we were culturally conditioned to do but the truth is, it will certainly overload your brainpower and your effectiveness in doing the more important task. Focus will be difficult and distractions will become more powerful. Studies have shown that multitasking can post real risk to mind and body.
According to Guy Winch Ph.D., in his article entitled 10 Real Risks of Multitasking, to Mind and Body, multitasking has become such a regular part of our lives that most of us believe we do it well—and few imagine it could actually be dangerous. Results are as follows:
- Multitasking is associated with harm to our brains
- Multitasking can lead to memory problems
- Multitasking can lead to increased distractibility
- Multitasking can make us walk into traffic
- Multitasking hurts your grades and the grades of those around you
- Multitasking can lead to falling and breaking bones
- Multitasking can harm your relationship
- Multitasking increases chronic stress
- Multitasking increases depression and anxiety
- Multitasking makes you less productive and less efficient
After understanding Cognitive Learning Theory, I began to realize my own learning practices and strategies. I realized, it must be the reason why I have been burned out quite a lot and at times, my health deteriorates. Personally, I have not experienced memory loss but for sure, chronic stress is frequent. These signs are the result of incorrect utilization of my brain power. All this time, I may have been experiencing cognitive/ information overload.
Multitasking for me is a thing of the past. It was good that I made an effort to exhibit but now, I am determined to work smart and hard. It is my sentient responsibility to ensure that I take care of my health to nurture my learning capabilities.
For real, this week was an eye opener for me.
Reference:
Winch. G Ph.D.(n.d.). 10 Real Risks of Multitasking, to Mind and Body. Retrieved from: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-squeaky-wheel/201606/10-real-risks-multitasking-mind-and-body
The Graveyard Chronicles 