We often feel like we're changing context a lot. We have many things to do, from writing code to fixing bugs, attending meetings, and staying on top of the latest tech trends. Sometimes, it feels like we have to do everything at once. But is this 'doing-everything-at-once', or multitasking, really helping us? Let's dive in and find out.

First off, what is multitasking? It means doing more than one thing at the same time. For example, while writing code, we check emails or keep an eye on the code running in another window. Multitasking is a great way to get a lot done. But scientists and researchers say that's not the case.

Studies have shown that when we try to do two or more things at once, we do them less than if we did one at a time. It happens because our brains aren't built to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Every time we switch between tasks, our brain has to stop and start again, which takes time and energy.

Let's say you're writing a piece of code, and you get an email. You stop coding to check the email, then go back to coding. But when you return to your code, you must remember where you were and what you were doing. That's your brain stopping and starting. It doesn't seem like much, but it adds up over the day, making you feel tired and slowing you down.

A study by the American Psychological Association showed that multitasking can cause as much as a 40% drop in productivity (APA, 2006). Think about that. It's almost like going home at lunchtime and not coming back. But you're still at work, trying to juggle everything and feeling burnt out.

Multitasking not only slows us down but also makes us make more mistakes. Jumping from one thing to another makes it easy to miss details or forget things. For software developers, this can mean bugs in the code or forgetting to add a crucial feature.

And there's more. Research has found that multitasking can stress us out (Mark, Judith & Klocke, 2008). When we're trying to juggle many things, we constantly feel rushed and under pressure. That's not good for our health or our happiness.

So, what can we do instead of multitasking? The answer is to focus on one thing at a time. This is sometimes called "single-tasking" or "monotasking." It means picking one task and sticking with it until it is done or until a set time is up.

For example, you must write a new code, answer some emails, and check on a running code. Instead of trying to do all these simultaneously, you can set a one-hour timer and work on the code. Then, ignore the emails and the other code until the hour ends. Then, take a break, switch to the emails, and set the timer again.

This way, you give each task your full attention. As a result, you'll likely get more done and make fewer mistakes. Plus, you will not have that feeling of being rushed.

So, the next time you find yourself juggling too many things, remember to slow down, choose one task, and give it your full attention. It might initially feel strange, mainly if you're used to multitasking. But give it a try and see how it works for you.

It's okay to feel overwhelmed sometimes, and it's okay to take a step back and focus on one thing at a time. Remember, we're only built to do some things at a time, but to do one thing at a time and do it well. So, let's make the most of it!

It's also essential to remember that every person is different. What works for one might not work for the other—so try different things and see what works best for you.

So, multitasking can decrease productivity by up to 40%, increase mistakes, and cause stress. On the other hand, single-tasking can improve productivity, reduce errors, and lead to happier and healthier work life.

So, let's say goodbye to multitasking and hello to single-tasking. Let's give our brains a break and see how much more we can achieve. Let's enjoy our work, one task at a time.