Benefits of Monotasking
Monotasking is the act of doing one task at a time with full attention. Some people also refer to it as solo tasking. I like the word monotasking because it is the clear opposite of multitasking.
Monotasking can be harder than it initially seems. Distractions abound, both internal and external. Our minds go off in different directions. Other people want our attention. Technology and our devices are insatiable.
I talk a lot about the benefits of monotasking in my book The Twelve Monotasks. The benefits of monotasking include:
Increasing productivity - you may think you will get more done by multitasking and it may look like you’re busy, but the reality is that monotasking is more productive in the long run.
Reducing errors in the work you do by being focused.
Improving the quality of the work you do by paying attention.
Decreasing stress by being present in each task you do instead of getting overwhelmed by everything you need to do.
Being happier! People who live in the present moment tend to be happier than those who are constantly thinking about the past and the future. Monotasking always happens in the present moment.
Lengthening your attention span. The attention economy is constantly trying to distract you and fragment your attention. You can take charge of your attention, rebuild and expand it by monotasking.
Improving your connection and relationships to others. When you monotask the time you spend with friends and family, you become more connected, become a better listener, and feel more what they are feeling.
Building your monotasking muscles! The more you monotask, the better at it you become so it’s a reinforcing cycle!