How to Maximize Your Day & Effectively Multitask
Multitasking often gets a bad rap, and rightly so—trying to give full focus to two tasks at once can lead to mistakes and stress. I’ve been an executive virtual assistant for nearly a decade, and I know first hand that trying to do multiple things at once will not help you get ahead of your to do list. However, I do believe that there are some things you can multitask at. Unfortunately it does not include working on a project that requires a lot of attention and taking a phone call at the same time or answering emails while joining that meeting on zoom.
Instead try pairing a high-focus task alongside a low-effort, repetitive activity. This way you can optimize your time without compromising quality. I assist podcasters with proof listening to their final episodes which would be a high-focus task that I can do while I do another low effort activity, such as cooking (something easy I know how to cook already), driving to drop off or pick up my kids from school, or doing any house chores. Below are some effective multitasking pairs to try:
Listening or Connecting While Doing
As I mentioned before I proof listen to podcasts as part of my tasks as a virtual assistant while doing other low effort activities, but I also like to listen to audiobooks or podcasts that are of interest to me as well, not related to work. As a work from home mom of 2 boys; (10 & 3) my time is limited and I need to find moments in my day where I can double up on the things that I need and want to do. Some multi-tasking that has worked for me has been listening to audiobooks and podcasts while doing house work such as laundry, cooking, cleaning, tidying up rooms, sweeping, mopping, gardening etc. You can also do some listening and learning while getting some exercise, such as walking, running, stretching, or any other workout you have ready to go. You can also keep the listening going while you drive or while you shower by using a waterproof speaker.
Most of the activities listed above can also be done while connecting with your friends and family. Maintain those relationships by catching up with them over a phone while you do those house chores, cook, or go for a walk. It can work while driving too, just have the right bluetooth and don’t get too distracted while on the road.
Entertaining While Doing
Having a lengthy to-do list may cut into your time for catching up on those shows that are on your watch list. Personally I’ve stopped watching anything with too many seasons to it, instead I can pick something with 1 or 2 seasons and short episodes or a good movie. What has helped me still be able to watch some shows while I get stuff done has been having an Alexa Show in my kitchen. My kitchen is separate from the living room so having this Alexa gives me a way to watch some Netflix while I cook and cleanup or do dishes. I can also watch youtube, listen to music or the news on it. It’s been nice to have since I spend lots of time in the kitchen! Other ways you can multitask watching TV and something else is by walking/running on a treadmill or cycling, or doing other exercises while watching TV. Also try keeping up with self care routines while you watch your show, such as doing your hair, makeup, nails, etc.
Planning While Doing
There are many things that need planning, such as what you need to get done later that day or tomorrow, what are you doing for that birthday or holiday or summer plans? Even your shopping list or other things that you’d like to shop for. Many times these thoughts come randomly and you can forget them if you don’t write them down right away. I like to keep notepads everywhere or tell Alexa to add it to my to do list or shopping list and if they come in the shower use this waterproof notepad to jot them down. Once a week I go through all of my notepads and lists and capture what I need to do or buy.
Intentionally, try to use your time while you do your low effort, repetitive activities such as house chores, cooking, walking or showering to get some planning done. Visualize how you want certain things to turn out then write it down and lay out the steps you need to get it there. I spend many hours helping my toddler fall asleep, and while I’m there I am visualizing what I want my business to look like or am thinking about my list of to dos and prioritizing what I need to focus on next.
Multitasking like this can be very productive and will help you find time back in your day.