Even though we all know single-tasking is the most helpful hack to productivity, we still end up juggling a dozen things at once, trying to multitask. Our brains are in constant rebellion against what works best until there’s a disaster.

One day I was making a presentation with a podcast playing in the background, and I missed two key slides that made everything else very confusing. That’s when I decided — only one thing at a time, no multi-tasking.

Here’s why you should also try it:

🎯 When you focus on one thing, the quality of your work skyrockets.
⏰ You finish tasks faster, which means more time for yourself.
🛑 Less multitasking = fewer mistakes.
💆 Prevents burnout from doing too much in too little time.

Single-tasking shines in situations like:

- Solving complex problems (like coding)
- Creative endeavors (like writing a novel or personal blog)
- Any task that requires your full, undivided attention (like proofreading)

If you’re nodding along but thinking, “Easier said than done,” here’s a quick 5-step guide to get you started:

  1. Choose your top 2-3 tasks for the day.
  2. Tackle them when you’re most alert and your surroundings are least distracting. I use Sunsama to enter ‘Focus mode’ and it hides my task list while showing me the only task I’m supposed to work on.
  3. Put your phone on DND mode, or better… keep it in another room.
  4. Find a quiet spot where you can zone in.
  5. Don’t forget to take short breaks - your brain needs it.

I’m curious… are we just wired to multitask even when it’s not effective, or are we just addicted to the chaos? What’s your take?