When it comes to job applications, “able to multitask” often tops the list of desired skills. People love to brag about their multitasking prowess, but once you become a parent, it feels like multitasking is just part of the job description. Have you ever fed a baby while juggling bills on your phone or helped your child with homework while simultaneously cooking dinner? It’s like we wear the title of “supermom” proudly!
But here’s the kicker: experts agree that multitasking isn’t the miracle solution we think it is, and this holds true even for the countless responsibilities that come with parenting.
Is Multitasking Really Effective?
Take it from Lisa Andrews, a family therapist who specializes in working with moms. She points out that while we might feel accomplished doing several things at once, we often end up wasting time. “Our brains can only focus on one thing at a time,” Lisa explains. “What we call multitasking is actually just switching between tasks.” Each time we shift our focus, we lose time that could have been used to complete a single task efficiently.
Moreover, the stereotype of the multitasking mom, juggling countless duties, creates unrealistic expectations. It’s not beneficial to view ourselves as heroes who can tackle everything all at once.
You Don’t Need to Be a Superhero
Lisa suggests that moms should break free from this stereotype. “When you try to do multiple things at once, it sends the message to your family that they can interrupt you anytime,” she shares. Feeling pressured to be a “do-it-all” parent is neither realistic nor fair to yourself.
Then there’s Emma, a clinical social worker, who highlights another issue with multitasking: it can actually stress you out. “Multitasking can trigger your body’s stress response,” she says. Symptoms like a racing heart, muscle tension, and headaches are common experiences for many parents.
When I feel overwhelmed, my instinct is to multitask even more. But could it actually be that the pressure of juggling tasks — rather than just having too much on my plate — is what’s causing that stress? And let’s be real, what’s a busy parent to do? Just ignore chores?
Clear Communication is Key
The best advice for anyone looking to ditch multitasking is simple: focus on one task at a time. Lisa recommends that moms communicate with their families about this new approach. For example, instead of being interrupted mid-task, ask your family to write down requests and leave them for you.
Many of us may have unknowingly trained our families, especially our kids, to expect us to drop everything the moment they need us. Lisa shares a story about a friend who hurt herself while rushing around the kitchen trying to do it all at once. Who hasn’t stubbed their toe or bumped their head while navigating through their busy day?
Setting boundaries is crucial. By teaching your family that your time and sanity matter, you also impart lessons in self-respect and patience. Kids need to learn that not every need can be met instantly, which will help them grow into more considerate individuals.
Putting It Into Practice
Imagine you’re five minutes away from finishing up your bills when your 11-year-old approaches you with a math question. You can say, “Hey, I need five more minutes to wrap this up, and then I’ll help you.” This way, they can work on another problem or just hang out while waiting for your attention. Before starting tasks, inform your kids that you need a little uninterrupted time to focus.
Lisa suggests prioritizing tasks to ensure you tackle the most important ones first. “You’ll get more done, and it will be done better,” she says. Emma agrees, encouraging us to ask ourselves, “What’s the most important thing to tackle right now?” Focus on that single task until it’s done. This approach not only boosts productivity but also reduces stress.
While some tasks can be done simultaneously, like cooking dinner while doing dishes, embracing the calm that comes from focusing on one thing at a time is valuable. Being a multitasking superhero may sound appealing, but it often leads to more stress. Remember, you’re already a hero — and you don’t need to juggle to prove it!
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Summary
In summary, multitasking as a parent may feel like a necessity, but it often leads to stress and inefficiency. Instead, focus on one task at a time, communicate your needs to your family, and set boundaries to create a more balanced and calm home environment. Remember, you don’t need to do it all at once to be a great parent.
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