I wanted to share one of the time management tips from Chapter 17 of Reconnecting Workspaces, the myth of multi-tasking and dopamine. Here’s a quick excerpt from the book:
One of the fallacies of time management that has been debunked is that we can get more done when we multitask. In fact, it’s estimated that when we multitask we may actually reduce our productivity by 40%. When we shift from one task to another, we experience a heavier cognitive load. Energy gets expended in order to switch tasks.
In order to get more done while working across projects, think about these principles. First, batch similar tasks. Instead of switching from numbers to conversations, batch things like accounting and budgets together. Likewise, earmark blocks of time for deep work and focus. Chunk larger tasks down so you can gain some momentum.
Consider the times of the day when you are at your best, and leverage your circadian rhythms.
Sometimes time management means saying no, so notice when you are not getting things done as productively as possible.
Also consider your motivation. Dopamine plays a key role in motivation and gets released when:
• Things are unpredictable
• We are anticipating that a reward is coming
• We complete a task
The world of gaming is well known for its incorporation of this science of motivation and dopamine. Think about how your favorite game incorporates some or all of these principles.
As it relates to learning, motivation, and getting things done. Consider how you can enact the flow of dopamine.
In multitasking we may feel like we are getting more done, when in fact we may not be completing tasks. Dopamine is released when we complete a task, thereby boosting motivation.
Consider these tips that are integrated into the 21 for 21 Virtual Co-working Sprints:
• Chunk things down into smaller tasks that you can complete and check off your list.
• Create uninterrupted focus by reducing notifications and other stimuli. 21 for 21 sprinters
consistently note how surprised they are at how much they can get done without interruption.
• Reward yourself at key milestones, for example, at the end of the week.
What are you going to do to keep focused on the one most important thing right now?
Enjoy your focus,
Jennifer
One of the fallacies of time management that has been debunked is that we can get more done when we multitask. In fact, it’s estimated that when we multitask we may actually reduce our productivity by 40%. When we shift from one task to another, we experience a heavier cognitive load. Energy gets expended in order to switch tasks.
In order to get more done while working across projects, think about these principles. First, batch similar tasks. Instead of switching from numbers to conversations, batch things like accounting and budgets together. Likewise, earmark blocks of time for deep work and focus. Chunk larger tasks down so you can gain some momentum.
Consider the times of the day when you are at your best, and leverage your circadian rhythms.
Sometimes time management means saying no, so notice when you are not getting things done as productively as possible.
Also consider your motivation. Dopamine plays a key role in motivation and gets released when:
• Things are unpredictable
• We are anticipating that a reward is coming
• We complete a task
The world of gaming is well known for its incorporation of this science of motivation and dopamine. Think about how your favorite game incorporates some or all of these principles.
As it relates to learning, motivation, and getting things done. Consider how you can enact the flow of dopamine.
In multitasking we may feel like we are getting more done, when in fact we may not be completing tasks. Dopamine is released when we complete a task, thereby boosting motivation.
Consider these tips that are integrated into the 21 for 21 Virtual Co-working Sprints:
• Chunk things down into smaller tasks that you can complete and check off your list.
• Create uninterrupted focus by reducing notifications and other stimuli. 21 for 21 sprinters
consistently note how surprised they are at how much they can get done without interruption.
• Reward yourself at key milestones, for example, at the end of the week.
What are you going to do to keep focused on the one most important thing right now?
Enjoy your focus,
Jennifer
Jennifer Britton
Potentials Realized |Reconnecting Workspaces | Group Coaching Essentials
Team and Leadership Development | Coaching | Retreats
Follow us on Instagram @ReconnectingWorkspaces
Phone: (416)996-8326
Check out my TEDx talk - Virtual, Remote and Hybrid Checklist
Looking to bring your workplaces back together, whether you are remote, hybrid, or face-to-face? Pick up a copy of my book, Reconnecting Workspaces, at Amazon
Potentials Realized |Reconnecting Workspaces | Group Coaching Essentials
Team and Leadership Development | Coaching | Retreats
Follow us on Instagram @ReconnectingWorkspaces
Phone: (416)996-8326
Check out my TEDx talk - Virtual, Remote and Hybrid Checklist
Looking to bring your workplaces back together, whether you are remote, hybrid, or face-to-face? Pick up a copy of my book, Reconnecting Workspaces, at Amazon
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