AMA #11: Improve Task Switching & Productivity and Reduce Brain Fog
Huberman Lab
How to Transition From Task a to Task B
Introducing a brief transition period, even as short as 15 seconds, between tasks allows for a more efficient and complete level of task execution on task B. There are top-down influences that we can leverage by understanding the underlying mechanisms of task switching. This transition period does not require any medication or supplements, but simply involves acknowledging and designating it as a transition period. During this period, the focus is on reflecting on the previous task and mentally disengaging from it, rather than immediately trying to focus on the next task. By doing so, we avoid placing unfair expectations on our neural circuits to instantly switch to task B and reduce the time it takes to fully engage in task B, which typically takes 5 to 10 minutes, by deliberately introducing a transition period.
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