In the last 10 years, much research has been done on multi-tasking and one conclusion has been drawn: multi-tasking does not make us more productive.  Multi-tasking can actually result in wasting 20 to 40 percent of our time, depending on the tasks at hand.

When we switch tasks, our minds must reorient to cope with the new information. When we multi-task, we reorient rapidly, and our concentration and quality of work suffers.

Another major downside to multi-tasking is the effect it has on our stress levels. Dealing with multiple things at once makes us feel overwhelmed, drained and frazzled.

Try these simple steps to avoid multi-tasking and get the most out of your day!

• Do One Thing at a Time – When you focus on one task, you’ll do it quicker and with fewer mistake.

• Be Present – Be present with your work and with those you are working with. Stay on your current ‘To Do’ and don’t let your focus float to other tasks.

• Don’t Let Small Tasks Interrupt Big Ones – Don’t pick up that two minute task just because it’s easy and don’t stop another task to answer an email that just arrived in your Inbox.

• Clean Your Workspace – A cluttered desk is a multi-tasker’s dream. Clear your desk of everything but the task you intend to work on.

• Make An Appointment With Your Work – Schedule an appointment for your toughest tasks. Designate time to work on one task or project at a time.

• Eliminate Interruptions – Interruptions are multi-tasking in disguise. Prevent them by turning off the ringers/beeps, the email notifications.