Modern folks are always busy. We constantly have to complete work tasks, settle the bills, buy groceries, and visit the doctor from time to time. Because of this, we often need to switch between tasks. For instance, sending emails to business partners, chatting on the phone with new clients, or planning a holiday. This stress is not an issue for those who know how to multitask.
Mixing offline and online can hinder your ability to multitask
First, you need to create two lists. Write down all the things that can be done offline in the first one. The second list is solely for tasks that need an Internet connection. Go online only when necessary. For example, you can draft an email without connecting, while Internet access is required for business talks via Skype. This way, you become less distracted and more effective at multitasking.
Keep track of everything
Do unfinished tasks keep you awake at night? Create a list of pending tasks and keep it handy. Make sure to state your tasks clearly. Otherwise, it might be challenging to complete them. It doesn't matter how many items are on the list: 100 or 1000.
Update it at the end of the workday. We also recommend creating lists for different types of tasks. For example, tasks related to marketing or groceries.
Next, choose tasks with the highest priority. Choose 5 critically important things, tasks that can be delegated, and things you can discard. Leave low-priority tasks for tomorrow.
View the list in the morning and check if it includes all the important daily tasks. Next, add all of them to your calendar. Check the list over the weekend to ensure you haven't forgotten anything.
Put that smartphone down
Ensure that you turn off your smartphone notifications. You can scroll through your Facebook and check new tweets when you get home. All necessary notifications should be on your work computer. It's also better to respond to emails from friends outside the office.
Multitasking welcomes a change of pace
Try working on two different projects on the same day and switching between them from time to time. A change in activity lets you come up with unexpected solutions and free yourself from random thoughts. It's always a good way to break away from monotonous work.
Don't forget about these rules and, before long, multitasking will become second nature to you.
