I was asked how do I manage all the activites and tasks that I need to get done in an interview. The answer was quite simple, I do them one at a time. We tend to think multitasking is the only/best way to things done but we are humans, not machines.  We really can’t watch TV and do homework efficiently. Check out this article I found from productivitytoday.com.

Do you multitask?

Of course you do…we all do! There have been several times that I’ve had to email someone, shush the dog, check on dinner, and look up the number for the doctor all at the same time. Fortunately for me, none of those things were life threatening or would have ended my job.

How do we do it all? Let’s face it, today’s world seems to demand it. We’re all working more and want to accomplish faster. In addition to that, we want to spend the optimal amount of time with our families and still have time for ourselves.The solution seems to be simple: do more than one thing at a time. If you need to send a business memo and also want to check on an ill sibling, why not optimize your time and do both at once?

Here’s why: research has shown that multitasking is not efficient. Several studies have conclusively shown that those trying to do multiple activities simultaneously lose time when they have to quickly switch between tasks. Then the time costs increase with the complexity of the tasks, so it takes significantly longer to switch between more complex tasks. In other words, while you think you’re saving time, you’re actually wasting it. In addition to that, the quality you’re able to put toward both tasks is significantly lowered.

Instead of trying to take on the whole world at once, consider unitasking. Focus completely and solely on one goal, achieve it, and move on to the next goal. You will see an increase in your achievements and a higher quality result as well.

Happy unitasking!

source : http://www.productivitytoday.com/unitasking