Multi-tasking: Friend or Foe?

Okay I’ll admit it. I am the Queen of Multi-tasking. My policy has always been why do one thing, when you can do three or more? Which roughly translated means I can often be found changing my son’s nappy while emptying one household machine, and simultaneously loading another.

However, of late I am beginning to sense it’s not actually something that works too well. Yesterday my 4-year old daughter yelled, ‘You’re not listening to me’. When I defended myself by recounting her every word she added, ‘Yes, but you’re not listening because you’re always texting/hanging washing/cooking and talking to the baby while I’m talking to you.’ All of which is sadly true.

  And while I have been known to boast I can write an article, paint my nails and have a conversation, the truth is I can’t, Mostly it means I end up with a rubbish feature, messy hands and a very disgruntled friend.

 

Now new research from University College London is backing up the theory that multitasking doesn’t work. According to the researchers tests have found that it’s pointless because none of us can focus accurately on more than one thing at a time.  I should in fact know this because my husband is always telling me so. Pointing out he doesn’t multitask because he likes ‘to do things properly’ (yes, imagine how I laugh when he says that!!!).

Though on a serious note I’d like to know what working mums are supposed to do? In between childcare, the school run, work, grocery shopping and kids appointments there are just not enough hours in the day to do one thing at a time.

So what’s your view? Multitasking – is it a friend or foe? Let me know.

Anita

Deal of the day:
Father’s Day is coming up – and the Activity Superstore is offering to put 8% of an activity day into your Kiddybank if you buy an experience to remember  through KidStart. Choose from a sedate Vineyard tour and taste for £29, or Paintballing for two for £34 (no of COURSE I’m not suggesting you go too – pick one of his more amenable and gullible mates)