Overview
Assistant Director for Research Operations at Center for BrainHealth, Erin Venza, PhD, explains that so-called multitasking is actually task-switching. This constant switching slows people down, increases mistakes, and leaves them more mentally fatigued. Venza notes that the effects extend beyond the immediate task. Frequent switching depletes mental energy, elevates stress, and makes it more difficult to engage in higher-order thinking, including problem-solving, strategic planning and decision-making.Continuous demands on attention, whether through meetings, emails, or digital distractions, can erode focus and cognitive performance over time. The greatest impact is often on high-value work that requires deep thinking, such as developing strategies, launching initiatives, allocating resources, or communicating complex ideas. These activities benefit from sustained focus rather than divided attention.Practical Strategies to strengthen focus:
- Practicing uninterrupted focus in manageable increments, beginning with 20-minute sessions.
- Minimizing distractions by reducing open tabs, silencing notifications, and putting away phones.
- Creating an environment that supports single-tasking and sustained attention.
