What is Multitasking?

Multitasking involves trying to do more than one thing at the same time. The phrase originally comes from the world of computers, where engineers could devise systems flexible enough to perform several tasks at once. But we are not computers and research suggests that when we try to do two or more things at once, this can create problems:

What Problems can Trying to Multitask Create?

If you are trying to do lots of different tasks at the same time it can lead to the following problems:

- Reduced efficiency in performing the tasks
- Poorer judgement
- Shorter attention span
- Forgetfulness

In severe cases, where the volume or nature of the tasks is particularly demanding, this can contribute to stress, anxiety or even depression.

It may be that in some instances where people think they are doing two or more things at once, what they are actually doing is switching between the different tasks. This can be distracting and usually adds overall time because of the additional element of reorientating your mind and your focus as you move between tasks.

Suggestions for Dealing with Multitasking Issues

So what can you do if you feel that you have too many things to do and not enough time? My initial suggestions include the following:

* Decide on priorities between different tasks and allocate time accordingly, rather than spending a lot of time on tasks which you could leave without much of a problem.

* In the tasks that you are doing, focus on the essentials that need to be done, rather than wasting time on peripheral aspects.

* Take short breaks when doing tasks for a long time. This usually helps you to be more productive with the time you do spend on the tasks. It is sometimes referred to as a decompression routine.

* If you feel that the burden of the tasks you are doing is too great for you, try to seek or negotiate support from others who might be able to help with some of the tasks in a constructive way - don't just allow it to build up to a point where you can't cope. There is no shame in admitting that you need help.

* Finally, keep some time for relaxation each week, doing something for yourself, whether that involves pampering yourself, socialising, partaking in something creative or relaxing in another way - this is your special time and can help to prevent you getting stressed out.

If these initial suggestions don't work you may need to seek support from a coach or other independent professional to assist you in understanding how to make improvements in related areas which may be underpinning your difficulties, such as:

- Assertiveness issues (including learning how to say no to requests to do things that you don't really have time to do)

- Time management skills

- Learning practical skills in how to change habits which you have had for a long time and how to deal with anxieties about the impact of change on yourself or others.