In this discussion, Dave Crenshaw, a productivity expert for Fortune 500 companies and a popular author, debunks the myth of multitasking. He explains how most people are actually switchtasking, losing valuable time and focus. Dave highlights the importance of being present during conversations and shares actionable steps to improve attention and efficiency. He suggests tracking your time and emphasizes that your calendar can be your best ally in managing tasks and priorities.
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insights INSIGHT
Multitasking Myth
Multitasking is a myth; it's actually switchtasking, rapidly shifting between tasks.
This inefficiency increases errors, time spent, and stress, like a computer overheating.
insights INSIGHT
Gender & Switching Costs
While some studies suggest women have lower switching costs than men, everyone incurs them.
The goal isn't to be better at switchtasking but to eliminate switching altogether.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Team Switchtasking
Consider how switchtasking affects your team and their perception of importance.
Putting away distractions while listening communicates value and respect.
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This book, written by Dave Crenshaw, uses anecdotal and real-world examples to demonstrate that multitasking is inefficient and damaging to productivity. It provides updated research on why multitasking does not work, includes worksheets for effective day management, and offers easy, actionable steps to manage life and achieve goals. The book emphasizes the importance of single-tasking and provides strategies to combat the temptation of multitasking, helping readers to focus and manage their time more effectively.
Essentialism
The Disciplined Pursuit of Less
Greg McKeown
In 'Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less,' Greg McKeown argues that by applying a more selective criteria for what is essential, individuals can regain control of their time and energy. The book is divided into sections such as Explore, Eliminate, and Execute, providing practical advice on distinguishing the vital few from the trivial many and eliminating non-essential activities. McKeown emphasizes the importance of clarity of focus, the ability to say 'no,' and living 'by design, not by default.' This approach helps readers achieve more by doing less and making the highest possible contribution in their personal and professional lives.
Dave Crenshaw: The Myth of Multitasking
Dave Crenshaw develops productive leaders in Fortune 500 companies, universities, and organizations of every size. He has appeared in Time magazine, USA Today, FastCompany, and the BBC News. His courses on LinkedIn Learning have been viewed tens of millions of times. His five books have been published in eight languages, the most popular of which is The Myth of Multitasking: How “Doing It All” Gets Nothing Done*.
In this conversation, Dave and I discuss why multitasking is a myth and how switchtasking stops us from being efficient. We highlight a few key indicators that will help you determine if you’re switchtasking more that you imagine. Finally, we detail three practical steps you can take to be more present for yourself and others.
Key Points
40% of knowledge workers never get more than thirty minutes straight of focused time.
True multi-tasking is a myth. Most people are switchtasking — and losing time when they do it.
An indicator that you might not be present with others is if they linger when conversations are complete.
Determining when you will give people your full attention will help both of you be more efficient during (and outside) those conversations.
Tracking your weekly timeline will help you make better decisions about where to be most present.
Your calendar is your best time management app.
Resources Mentioned
Time Management Fundamentals by Dave Crenshaw on LinkedIn Learning
The Myth of Multitasking: How “Doing It All” Gets Nothing Done by Dave Crenshaw
Related Episodes
Finding Joy Through Intentional Choices, with Bonni Stachowiak (episode 417)
Align Your Calendar to What Matters, with Nir Eyal (episode 431)
See What Really Matters, with Greg McKeown (episode 469)
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