Coaching Corner: Is multi-tasking a skill?
By "Coach" Marilou Butcher Roth
Yesterday I met with a new client and the topic of multi-tasking came up, a topic that gives me pause every time since I personally go in and out of doing too many items at one time! My name is Marilou, and I am a multi-tasker! Anyone out there joining me?
Currently, in my world, I do not find myself in this position. However, similar to any other addiction, at any moment I might slip back into my juggling act for the alleged sake of efficiency! Here is the reality, multi-tasking is not a skill. When we are attempting to accomplish several items at one time, our attention is divided. Even if we make it through our juggling act, we have not been present with some, if not all of what we just did.
What I have discovered over time, is that allowing myself to put my full attention on ONE task at a time, puts me in a position of being fully present with the task at hand, regardless of the simplicity of the task. This is true with the most mundane acts. When you are loading the dishwasher, put your attention on what you are doing, one dish at a time. And here is the bonus piece -- when you are fully present with each task, you are much more efficient and can accomplish so much more!!
When you are juggling and rushing, your efficiency suffers, you feel scattered, and mistakes can happen. This week, I invite you to become a solo-tasker, focusing your attention on one item at a time. Just try it! If you are afraid to take that leap with work items, start with home activities. Take a deep breath, gently place you attention on what you are doing and move at a pace that feels easeful to you. Pace is an important part of this equation -- if you find yourself moving too quickly, take another breath and slow down to your desired pace.
And, can you imagine how your loved ones will feel when you are focusing your attention fully on what they are saying to you? Oh my!
Marilou Butcher Roth
Marilou Butcher Roth is the owner of The MBR Group, a coaching and training company working primarily with REALTORS who have a desire to work and live from a more inspired place. She is also the Broker/Owner of Group REALTORS in Cincinnati.
Marilou is a member of the Ohio REALTORS Board of Directors and past chairman of the organization’s Communications Committee.
