“Having fewer things on your plate at any given time,

increases the rate at which you accomplish things

and increases the quality.”

As said by Cal Newport, Author of ‘Deep work’ and associate professor at Georgetown University.

I was listening to this podcast for a while this morning, while making coffee and it again caught me as a fundamental truth, which we all know. Yet, repeatedly we fail at it.

And I include myself in this observation.

In my coaching sessions I often work with people who struggle with their overwhelm, with the amount of work. And they even tell me that doing less, respectively fewer things at once is what would make them more effective.

And I feel the same. I catch myself doing several things at once, yet I know that if I focus a full hour on one specific task, not only will I get farther, but I will also feel happier. More content.

Sometimes the counterintuitive actions are the ones with the biggest benefit. Putting that phone out of reach, switching off notifications, and you could achieve your goals.

What is keeping you from fully focusing?

What is giving you reasons of overwhelm?

How coaching helps you stay focused

The first point is the increase in self awareness you gain. That again helps you better understand and feel, how you are doing and how much more you can or cannot be taking on. Often people lose this feeling when they’re overwhelmed.

Additionally you gain a lot of clarity when it comes to setting priorities and understanding what really matters. You may even improve on decision making skills with coaching, so that you don’t ponder any longer for too long but can get going.

Some key questions to consider

Q) How can individuals effectively implement strategies to reduce the number of tasks they take on simultaneously?

a) Individuals can effectively reduce the number of tasks they take on simultaneously by implementing strategies such as prioritisation, time blocking, and delegation. By identifying the most important tasks and focusing on completing them one at a time, individuals can enhance their productivity and quality of work.

Also try the 20/80 rule. Whereby 20% of your tasks, give you 80% of your outcomes.

Q) Are there specific barriers preventing people from prioritising focused work over multitasking, and if so, how can these barriers be overcome?

a) Specific barriers preventing people from prioritising focused work over multitasking may include workplace culture, pressure to constantly be available. And a lack of clear boundaries between work and personal life. These barriers can be overcome by setting clear goals, establishing boundaries, and advocating for a work environment that values deep focus and productivity.

Q) What practical steps can individuals take to cultivate a mindset that values deep focus and productivity over the allure of multitasking?

a) Practical steps individuals can take to cultivate a mindset that values deep focus and productivity include practicing mindfulness, setting realistic expectations, and regularly assessing and adjusting their workload. Additionally, seeking support from a coach or mentor can provide guidance and accountability in developing habits that promote focused work and reduce overwhelm.