Multitasking: Are We Doing Too Much?

In today’s fast-paced world, multitasking has become the norm. We juggle emails while attending meetings, scroll through social media during a coffee break, or cook dinner while answering work calls. But have you ever wondered whether multitasking genuinely makes us more productive? Or could it be creating a false sense of achievement?

Let’s examine the realities of multitasking, the pressures that drive us to do it, and how we can reclaim focus in an increasingly distracted world.

The Pressure to Do It All

Our lives are busier than ever. Outside pressures, work deadlines, family responsibilities, and social commitments push us to believe that doing multiple things simultaneously is the only way to stay afloat. Many of us feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day, so we cram tasks together to "save time."

But does this actually work? Studies suggest it doesn’t. Multitasking often leads to “switch-tasking,” where we quickly jump between tasks rather than focusing on one. This constant switching drains mental energy, increases mistakes, and ironically, slows us down.

The truth is, multitasking rarely delivers the productivity boost we think it does.

The False Sense of Productivity

Why do we feel so accomplished when multitasking? The answer lies in the illusion of productivity. We equate busyness with effectiveness. Tackling multiple tasks at once feels like progress, but in reality, it often leads to mediocre outcomes for all tasks involved.

For example, replying to emails while sitting in a meeting might mean you miss key points in the discussion. Cooking dinner while on a work call might lead to a burned dish or misunderstood instructions.

When we multitask, we rarely give our best to any single task. Instead, our divided attention leaves us feeling frazzled and often less satisfied with the results.

The Workplace: A Hotspot for Multitasking

Nowhere is the pressure to multitask more intense than in the workplace. With emails, instant messages, and back-to-back meetings, employees are constantly pulled in multiple directions. The expectation to “do it all” has created a culture of constant connectivity—but at what cost?

Multitasking in the workplace can reduce productivity by as much as 40%, according to research. Employees take longer to complete tasks, make more mistakes, and experience higher stress levels.

To combat this, organisations are beginning to adopt “deep work” practices, encouraging employees to focus on one task at a time. It’s a movement that prioritises quality over quantity, and the results are promising: better work, less stress, and a healthier work-life balance.

My Experience with Multitasking

I’ll admit, multitasking is something I’ve struggled with in my own business. Running a health coaching practice means wearing many hats: responding to clients, writing blogs, managing social media, and planning new programs—sometimes all in the same day. It’s easy to fall into the trap of trying to do everything at once. But the more I reflect on this approach, the more I realise that multitasking often leaves me feeling scattered and less productive.

For example, there have been days when I’ve tried to write a blog while replying to emails and brainstorming social media posts. By the end of the day, nothing felt finished, and I was mentally exhausted. It’s a clear sign that something needs to change.

Recognising this pattern has motivated me to create strategies to get the most out of my day. I’m learning to focus on one task at a time, set clear priorities, and allow myself the mental space to do things well. It’s a work in progress, but the difference is already noticeable—I’m less stressed, more productive, and ultimately more satisfied with my work.

Are There Benefits to Multitasking?

Despite its drawbacks, multitasking does have its place—when done selectively. Pairing a passive activity with an active one, like folding laundry while listening to a podcast, can be an efficient way to use your time. Similarly, multitasking may be effective for creative brainstorming or routine tasks that don’t require deep focus.

The key is to recognise when multitasking works and when it doesn’t. High-stakes tasks or those requiring critical thinking deserve your full attention. For everything else, ask yourself: Can this be done later or delegated?

Reclaiming Focus in a Distracted World

If multitasking isn’t the answer, how can we achieve more without feeling overwhelmed? The solution lies in prioritisation and focus:

• Time Blocking: Dedicate specific chunks of time to individual tasks, free from interruptions.

• Limit Distractions: Turn off notifications, close unnecessary tabs, and set boundaries with colleagues or family members.

• Practice Mindfulness: Train your brain to stay present through meditation or mindful breathing techniques.

• Set Realistic Goals: Avoid overloading your to-do list. Focus on a few high-priority tasks each day.

• Take Breaks: Allow your brain to rest and reset. Short breaks can boost concentration and prevent burnout.

The Takeaway

Multitasking has become a symbol of modern life, but it’s not always the productivity hack we believe it to be. By understanding the pressures that drive us to multitask and recognising its limitations, we can reclaim our focus, improve our efficiency, and ultimately lead a more balanced life.

So the next time you feel the urge to juggle five tasks at once, pause and ask yourself: What truly needs my attention right now?