Multitasking Myth

A major component of the minimalist idea is to enjoy more of the present moments. Sadly, too much of our time is spent 'distracted'. This is something that we observe in all facets of life. Technology has only served to increase this trait. Now we are texting, talking, checking our email while attempting to carry on conversations. The truth is that little time is truly spent in the present moment.

One of the ideas I worked on today is to be in the present moment by focus only on a single activity at one time. I can tell you how difficult it is to do in reality. My life, like most other people, is filled with all the electronic devices which can ruin my present moments. Overall, I know I suffer a lack of productivity and connection because of this.

That leads me to the 'multitasking myth'. For years, I heard about those who professed to be 'experts' at multitasking. This always struck me as odd since logic led me to another conclusion. The truth is that it is impossible for the mind to focus on two things at one time. This is not my conclusion but that of the scientific community. That being said, I find it hard to believe that one can be more productive when trying to do two things at one time.

Instead of following the masses into this mindless myth, I am going to concentrate all my focus upon the activity which is right in front of me at the present moment. This is a key part and is in keeping with the minimalist mindset. What is simpler than the idea of concentrating on doing one thing at a time?

One aspect to understand is the concept of momentum. Physics tells us that it takes less energy to keep something in motion once it is going as compared to the energy required to get something moving. We are nothing more than a bundle of energy. Momentum is the force that allows us to press ahead with an activity while expending as little effort as possible. The only way to create this is to start an activity and stick with it until completion.

Compare this idea to the continual start and stop required when trying to do multiple things simultaneously. Since we know that it is impossible for the brain to process the two ideas at one time, we then can conclude that it must go back and forth between the different activities. Can you see how we have a start and stop situation. Each time we revert back, we need to determine where we left off to decide what the next move is. This is all eliminated if we simply focus on doing the first activity to completion.

Some might take exception to the ideas I expressed here. That is fine. However, for me, since I want to live a life of total freedom, I am not going to be bound by the misconceptions of society. I am now understanding in great detail how we are all sold a 'bundle of lies' by the cultures we live in. The truth is skewed by people with agendas. Everywhere we turn, there is someone promoting some kind of dogma which we take as gospel. The sad fact is we rarely question what is happening. Fortunately, I started asking and I didnt like the answers I received.

Today, I suggest you follow in my footsteps by casting off the 'multitasking myth'. Focus all your efforts on the one activity that is in front of you. If you need some immediate assistance in getting started, here is a wonderful article by Joshua Becker with 6 suggestions to help you get into present moment living. I will keep you updated on my progress.