In today’s fast-paced world, multitasking feels like a necessary skill. From professionals managing meetings and emails to parents balancing work and household responsibilities, the ability to juggle multiple tasks at once seems essential. But is it truly possible to multitask effectively?
Erika Robinson, a working mom, describes her daily life as a constant race against time. “We come home, think about what we have to do for ourselves and our children—cooking, getting clothes ready, making sure homework is done,” she said. For Robinson, multitasking seems like the only way to get everything done.
However, Linda Stone, a writer and consultant who has spent years studying human behavior, challenges the notion of multitasking. Stone, who worked at Apple and Microsoft, says humans aren’t built for it. “There isn’t any real multitasking. We don’t ever do anything simultaneously. We are just rapidly task-switching,” she explained.
Stone coined the term “continuous partial attention” in 1998 to describe what most people think of as multitasking. She argues that our brains are not designed to handle multiple complex tasks at the same time. While simple actions, like walking and chewing gum, are manageable together, performing two demanding activities simultaneously often leads to mistakes and decreased efficiency.
Studies back up her claims. One study found that multitasking nearly doubled the number of prescription-writing errors among doctors. The research underscores the risks of trying to do too much at once, particularly in high-stakes situations.
Stone also points to smartphones as a major contributor to our splintered focus. “The smartphone is amazing, but it’s one of the most seductive tools we’ve ever had,” she said. “It affects our posture, causes shallow breathing, and keeps our attention constantly divided.”
The physical effects of multitasking are just as concerning as the mental strain. Stone notes that people often hunch over their devices, which can lead to poor posture and tension. The constant need to switch tasks can also elevate stress levels and make it harder to relax.
To combat these effects, Stone advocates for intentional breaks and activities that promote mindfulness. She suggests simple practices like walking outdoors, humming, or singing as ways to reset and recharge. She turns to dance lessons to counteract the mental and physical stress caused by multitasking.
“Dancing is an antidote to the stress of constantly dividing your attention,” she said. Working mom Evandissa Cabral agrees, saying that dance provides a much-needed pause in her busy life. “Most times we don’t stop to take a breath. Dancing helps you slow down, and it feels incredibly rewarding,” she shared.
Stone’s insights suggest that the key to managing a busy life isn’t multitasking but focusing on one thing at a time. By giving undivided attention to each task, people can improve productivity and reduce stress. The myth of multitasking may finally be unraveling, leaving room for a more mindful approach to modern life.
