In this fast-paced society, we are faced with increasing work and life pressure. Sometimes we need to manage multiple tasks. In these circumstances, it can be easy to fall into the trap of multitasking and try to juggle multiple tasks at once. In fact, doing so may reduce the productivity and efficiency. On the contrary, monotasking can help us better manage our time. Monotask requires fully focusing on the task at hand and resisting any distractions. This article will delve into the concepts, benefits and practical tips of monotasking. Improve your performance at work and study.
Cisdem Focus
Monotasking, also known as single tasking, is the act of only concentrating on a single task without being disturbed by other tasks. This is an effective time management method, which requires the self-discipline and eliminates all distractions. Monotasking has become more and more popular in recent years as the negative impact of multitasking has become more apparent. It can be focusing on one task for a period of time without distractions until the task is completed. You can also divide the task into several short intervals with breaks in between, depending on your working habits.
monotasking and multitasking are two different ways of doing things, the difference between them is the number of tasks that can be handled simultaneously. Monotasking refers to focus on a single task, while multitasking is a handling multiple tasks at the same time. For example, we respond emails while listening to music. Listen to navigation instructions while driving. These are multitasking. When tasks are relatively simple and repetitive, using multitasking can save your time. However, if the task requires a high degree of focus, or creative thinking, or if the task needs to process a large amount of information, monotasking is better for you.
Compared with multitasking, monotask has the following benefits:
Increase efficiency: When we focus on a single task, we are able to manage our time and energy more effectively, which will increase efficiency and produce a better quality of work.
Fewer mistakes: Monotasking makes it easier for us to focus on the task and we are less likely to make mistakes.
Improve memory: Monotasking also improves our attention and comprehension of information related to that task, helping us to remember and understand better.
Reduce stress: Multitasking requires us to juggle multiple things at once, which can lead to stress and anxiety. On the contrary, mono tasking enables us to slow down, and reduce psychological stress.
Increase creativity: Mono task can help us easily get into flow state, which describes a feeling of fully immersed in whatever you are doing. In this state, our concentration, creativity and innovative thinking ability are enhanced.
Monotask requires you giving the task your full attention. When we are interrupted, it takes us extra time and energy to refocus, which causes us taking longer to complete the task. Additionally, distractions can increase our stress and anxiety, further reducing our productivity. So the first step of monotasking is eliminating external distractions.
Create a quiet environment: Working in a quiet place can help you focus more on tasks and reduce the impact of outside distractions.
Limit notifications and social media: Silence your phone and turn off social media notifications to reduce interruptions.
Block distracting apps/websites: There are many attractive apps and websites that will grab your attention while working and studying. You will always want to access them and look up something. Installing a websites blocker and app locker tool can help you stay focused on your task.
Use noise reduction tools: Such as noise-canceling headphones or a white noise machine, can help reduce out noise and distractions at work.
Task batching helps you organize tasks more effectively. In addition, it reduces the time and energy required to switch between different tasks.
First, List and prioritize all tasks that need to be done.
Group similar tasks together and treat them as the mono task, such as answering phone calls, organizing files, etc.
Set time periods for each task. You can set different time periods for different tasks, depending on their urgency and importance.
Give your full attention to the one task. Ignore other things not related to the task.
After finishing all the tasks in a task group, you can take a break and start working on the next task group.
Set a measurable, specific, and realistic goal for each task. Set deadlines for each and make sure you have enough time to complete them. You can add the deadlines to your calendar to motivate you. This also helps you track your progress. Make sure other things won’t interrupt you until achieving your goal.
To mono tasking, Pomodoro definitely helps. The Pomodoro timer is a time management method that helps keep your focus and be more productive. If you are not familiar with this method, you can use professional Pomodoro tool-Cisdem Focus to help you, which enables you to easily practice the Pomodoro technical. Take a look at the step-by-step guide below on how to Monotask via this tool.
Step 1. Download and install Cisdem Focus on your Mac. Launch it.
Step 2. Click the plus icon on the bottom right. Add the monotask you want to work on today.
Step 3. Go to App Lock tab. Add distracting apps that you want to block during the monotask to the block list.
Step 4. Go to Web Block tab. Type in the URL of websites/webpages that will distract you to the box. Click Add. It also supports blocking websites by categories, such as social media, games sites and more.
Step 5. Tap on Rule Type. Go to the Pomodoro section. Set the Pomodoro timer for the monotask.
Typically, we set the timer to 25 minutes. Then take a short break for 5 minutes. After 4 Pomodoros, take a longer break. You can customize the length of timer depending on the difficult of the monotask.
Step 6. Select the monotask on the left column. Click on Start > Pomodoro. Start focusing on the task with out distractions and interruptions.
More and more people are getting used to multitasking to handle heavy workload. In fact, multitasking always lead to decreased productivity. In contrast, monotasking make us focus more, which can improve work efficiency and quality. Therefore, mastering the skills of mono tasking is crucial for us. Hope this article can help you better understand the concept, benefits of monotasking and how to practice it. Achieve better performance at work and study.
Norah Hayes likes to share her tips on how to improve focus and stay motivated at work. She believes it is essential to eliminate all online distractions during work hours.
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