subject: 5 Secrets Of Multitasking And Time Management [print this page] The goal is to accomplish moreThe goal is to accomplish more. Some things require 100% of your attention. For those, do not try to multitask. Multitasking is actually time slicing. A bit of time on one thing then a bit on the other then back to the first etc.
1 - What can you do while you are on the phone? Not email or reading or anything that takes major thought or the person on the other end of the phone will know and you will miss things. What I do is simple exercise. Stretch. Lift a light weight. Squeeze a hand spring.
I have improved my health by doing minor exercises and stretching while I'm on a conference call, I can easily stretch or do light repetitive weights.
I can also do simple cleaning while I am on the phone. I keep wet wipes and a cloth handy. It keeps my area clean.
2 - What can you do while you are in the car. Assuming you are the one driving, pay attention to the road. I dislike distracted and dangerous drivers. That said, I have listened to hours of audio programs in my car quite safely. And if you are passenger, you can do everything from read, work on the computer to phone calls.
Always think safety though. If you cannot focus on driving - don't do it.
3. Can you use your exercise time. Of course - many people do. Go to any gym and many people have ear buds or are watching the TV screens. Imagine what you could learn if you listened to books or language while exercising.
Consider working out with a friend. It is likely to get you to the gym. And often it pushes you. At the same time, it interjects some social time into the workout.
4. I do not happen to own a TV but do think multitasking in front of it makes sense. Exercise and stretching are two things that come to mind. I do not knit but that would work too.
If you set up your TV to allow for doing household chores like polishing shoes, mending, ironing, gift wrapping - lots can be accomplished.
5 - With good planning, there is never idle waiting. I get a lot of emails done on my Blackberry one at a time here and there. I also carry reading for longer waits.
Only multitask if 100% focus would not improve efficiency. I have often written about the myth of multitasking. But sometimes you can combine something automatic with something challenging and get double results and double time use.
