Unlocking productivity: how to avoid multitasking and get things done

When you’re trying to do multiple tasks at once, it can feel like you are being productive. But flitting between tasks is a recipe for disaster. Successfully completing a task often comes when taking one task at a time. 

No matter how tempting multitasking might be, avoid it. Instead, divide everything you need to do into assigned time frames throughout the day, using a productivity method called the “Hot 30”. This is where you split each task into “a hot 30 minutes” and see how much of you can complete.

The Hot 30 – your productivity toolkit 

To maximise your focus and efficiency, you can follow these steps: 

1. Set clear goals 

Before each 30-minute session, define what you aim to accomplish. Clear goals will keep you focused and on track throughout your session.

2. Eliminate distractions 

Minimise interruptions by silencing notifications, putting away your phone, closing unnecessary tabs or apps, setting yourself up in a distraction-free workspace and making sure you have everything you need to complete your task. 

3. Don’t expect perfection 

The pursuit of perfection can result in procrastination. Improving little by little is the goal. Making progress and getting things done, even if they’re not perfect, is sometimes better than not doing anything at all. 

4. Prioritise 

Identify the most important tasks that need to be completed first and then write them in order, with those that are not urgent towards the end of the list.

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5. Break tasks down 

Break larger tasks into smaller, manageable subtasks that can be completed within the time frame. This can help you see the progress that you are making at the end of each 30-minute session.

For example, when writing an essay, break it down into smaller tasks: research the topic for an hour, write your essay plan for 30 minutes, write the introduction in 30 minutes and so on, breaking down each section of the essay into manageable chunks. Some of these tasks might take longer, but at least you know you’ll have started to bring your essay together with this technique. 

6. Stay focused 

During each session, concentrate solely on the task at hand. The aim is to avoid multitasking and working on multiple things at once. Make sure that you have a set aim for this chunk of time and have all the relevant resources open and ready to refer to. 

7. Review progress 

At the end of your work session, take a moment to reflect on what you have accomplished. 

8. Stay flexible 

Be willing to adapt your schedule and priorities as needed. If a task requires more than one chunk, allocate additional time accordingly.

Each distraction, whether it’s social media, deadlines or other tasks, chips away at your progress. This can leave you trapped in a cycle of unfinished tasks and unmet goals. By allowing yourself to get side-tracked, you’re losing valuable time that could be invested in meaningful work. 

However, by scheduling in targeted times for work, you regain control over your time and focus, allowing you to channel your energy into deep, uninterrupted work sessions that take you closer to your objectives.