Don't Miss an Article
Join thousands of other innovators receiving our newsletter.
Multitasking
- John Miller
Gatha
When I try to do two things at once, it feels like I'm getting ahead.
But my attention keeps breaking, and the work takes longer.
So I notice the urge, and return to one task, until it's complete.
Reflection
The urge to split focus can feel reasonable. A new message appears. A quick task seems easy to handle.
Switching feels like momentum.
But attention pays for every switch. The first task gets thinner. The second task starts half-held.
What looked efficient begins to stretch the work out.
This moment is not about forcing perfect focus. It is about noticing the pull to divide attention before it chooses the pace.
One task, fully held, gives the work a clearer edge. Finish what is in front of you, or deliberately set it down before opening the next thing.
Return to Choice
Before switching tasks: pause. Choose the one thing you are doing now. Complete it, or intentionally put it down before you begin the next.
Visit the full Gathas@Work collection
PDUS/SEUS
This article counts toward .25 PDUS/CEUS. Get more credits by reading more articles 👉
Enjoyed this post? Let’s keep going.
Whether you're leading a team, managing a product, or transforming a classroom, I have resources to help you work smarter and get real results.
Click below for what works for you:
Free Resources
More Articles
Engaging Workshops
About John
Hey, I’m John. I help leaders, educators, and product innovators work smarter and build things that matter.
I cut through the noise to bring modern methods that actually work. Whether it’s leadership, product management, or education, the goal is the same—less friction, more impact. No fluff. No jargon. Just real-world insights to help you get better, faster.
💡 What You’ll Get Here:
✔ Smarter ways to lead and collaborate without the micromanaging
✔ Fresh, no-nonsense takes on modern work and education
✔ Tools and tactics to make work easier, faster, and more effective
Work doesn’t have to be chaotic.
Let's connect!