Studies have shown that a woman is wired to handle multiple tasks at one time, whether she fills the role of Mom, working professional, athlete, student or any of the other limitless titles we take. How do you become better at multitasking? Follow these 21 tips.
1. Organize
Invest time and energy to minimize the chaos. Declutter and dispose of the unused items in your home and office.
2. Sleep
Experts recommend a solid eight hours of uninterrupted sleep each night to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
3. Pad in extra time
Always account for the unexpected when scheduling appointments; give yourself at least 10 minutes leeway.
4. Make lists
Invest in a notebook, organizer or plenty of sticky notes to write down what needs to be accomplished. Chalkboards and dry-erase boards are also great and can be found in even the most stylish homes.
5. Prioritize
Spend some time each morning prioritizing the tasks for the day using a simple numbering or bullet-point system.
6. limit Email checks
Checking your email every five minutes is counterproductive. Instead, check and respond to incoming emails twice a day when you have time.
7. Snack
Eat healthful snacks between meals to keep your energy up. Easy suggestions include freshly cut vegetables and fruits, as well as crackers and cheese.
8. Use the gadgets
Most cell phones today are built with the multitasker in mind and include a calendar, task list and memo pad. Learn how to use it and shift to a more paperless and earth-friendly approach.
9. Screen calls
Let your friend’s call go to voicemail if you don’t have the time to talk now. She will appreciate your attention more when you actually have it to give!
10. Use space wisely
Keep in mind that space is a commodity. Keep all the items you need readily available, such as a pen, paper, phone and computer.
11. take Time out
When your body and mind tell you you’re overwhelmed, listen and take a time out to decompress, refocus and replenish with water and a snack.
12. Drink water
Bring water bottles with you when running errands to ward off dehydration, improve concentration and (as a bonus) maintain healthy body weight.
13. Exercise
We’ve heard time and time again that we should include at least 20 minutes of light to moderate exercise as part of our daily routines. Most people who exercise are able to multitask more efficiently because they have the energy to do it!
14. Balance
For every task accomplished for work, find an easy and fun one to accomplish for your psyche, such as smiling in the mirror.
15. Develop a cleaning schedule
Rather than making cleaning a major production, try spreading it out and cleaning as you go. Wipe down the sink after you wash your face, or throw out (or recycle) the newspaper after you are finished reading it.
16. Plan meals
Plan meals, including snacks, at the start of each week so you can fire off an answer to the inevitable question “what’s for dinner?” that doesn’t include take-out.
17. Allow for indulgence
Avoid feeling guilty if you sneak in that one little piece of chocolate. Remember: “Everything in moderation.”
18. Just say no
Know your limitations so you don’t bite off more than you can chew.
19. Use your support network
Use your circle of support for talking through issues, asking for advice or just unwinding.
20. Ask for help
Don’t be afraid to ask for help or delegate a task when things get overwhelming.
21. Put yourself first
The most successful multitasking women put themselves first so that they can better help the others around them.
One last thought: Not all multitasking is good. Safety takes priority — that means, for instance, no texting or reading while driving.
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