The Implications of Multitasking

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The idea of multitasking is a myth. Humans cannot perform two things at the same time. What we are doing is shifting our attention rapidly between different tasks. We leave a residue, we increase stress, what are some of the other implications? Another really bad implication is that switching attention so fast leads to errors. So there can be very serious consequences to multitasking.

Dr. Gloria Mark shares her science-based solutions for overcoming distractions and finding more flow.

— YOU’LL LEARN —

1) The biggest hurdle for your attention span.

2) What drains your attention span tank–and how to refuel it.

3) How to design your day to maximize productivity.

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— ABOUT GLORIA —

Dr. Gloria Mark has published over 150 papers in the top journals and conferences in the fields of human-computer interactions (HCI) and Computer-supported cooperative work (CSCW) and is author of the book Multitasking in the Digital Age. Her work on multitasking has appeared in outlets like the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, NPR, The Atlantic, the BBC, and many others. Her newest book, Attention Span: Find Focus and Fight Distraction, is out now.

She is the Chancellor Professor of Informatics at the University of California, Irvine. She received her PhD from Columbia University in psychology. She has been a visiting senior researcher at Microsoft Research since 2012. Her primary research interest is in understanding the impact of digital media on people's lives and she is best known for her work in studying people's multitasking, mood and behavior while using digital media in real world environments.

• Book: Attention Span: A Groundbreaking Way to Restore Balance, Happiness and Productivity

• LinkedIn: Gloria Mark

• Twitter: @GloriaMark_PhD

• Website: GloriaMark.com

— RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE SHOW —

• Book: Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl

• Past episode: 734: How to Train Your Mind to Focus and Handle Distractions Better with Dr. Amishi Jha

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