Could multitasking be holding you back?

Do you ever feel so overwhelmed with workload that multitasking seems like the only way to get everything done? We’ve all been there. However, with the right approach, you can stay on top of your workload while maintaining peace of mind! 

Carry on reading to find out why multitasking could be holding you back and how to avoid it in the first place…

Decreased focus and attention

When you multitask, your attention is divided among different tasks, causing a decrease in focus and overall cognitive performance. This can lead to errors, incomplete tasks, and a lower quality of work. For example, there’s no point trying to finish a spreadsheet while also on a Zoom call…you might miss a key update about your client or input the wrong data trying to contribute to the call at the same time. Don’t take the risk…

Increased stress

Juggling multiple tasks can lead to increased stress levels as your brain struggles to manage the constant influx of information and demands. As we all know, this can have a negative impact on your mental health and usually leads to burnout. 

Time wasting

Paradoxically, multitasking can actually waste more time than it saves. The time spent switching between tasks and correcting mistakes can outweigh any perceived time gains.

Instead of multitasking, try: 

• Making a to-do list

It may sound obvious, but having your tasks laid out on paper can help provide structure to your day and ensures you don’t forget something important. Try organising your to-do list in order of importance (bearing in mind that this may change as new tasks fly in throughout the day). 

• Blocking out your calendar 

It is also crucial to allocate a certain amount of time to each task, otherwise, you risk spending too long on one thing and neglecting another, causing more stress in the long run. A good way to ensure you stick to this is by blocking out your calendar so you can receive notifications when it’s time to move on to the next thing. 

• Being transparent 

As a contractor, it is vital to set realistic expectations with your clients. Before you delve into any project make sure both parties are on the same page and that the deadlines set out are actually achievable. This way, no one will be disappointed (or multitasking like a madman!). 

Are you a contractor looking for a new umbrella company? Come work with Mint! Give us a call on 0203 967 6846 today to find out more.