Deadlines, piles of tasks, an ever-growing to-do list. Time pressure is one of the strongest stressors of the modern world. Paradoxically, the more you feel you're running out of time, the less effectively you work. Instead of working faster, you work chaotically, making more mistakes. The key is to change your mindset about time and your strategy for action.
The Trap of "Multitasking"
Our brain is not designed for true multitasking. What we call multitasking is rapid switching between tasks. Each switch costs energy and time (the "switch cost"). This leads to fatigue and a decrease in work quality.
Scientific Sources:
- Covey, S. R. (1989). "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People".