You have a long to-do list and not enough time in the day to get everything done. Most Americans would agree that this is a regular dilemma. So, we often try to solve this problem by multitasking. Whether it’s eating lunch while replying to emails or making a grocery list while talking on the phone, we are all guilty of multitasking whether we realize it or not.
If you’ve ever noticed that you’re ineffective while multitasking, that’s probably because the human brain is unable to do it. In fact, MIT professor, Dr. Earl Miller, explains, “The brain is incapable of simultaneously processing separate streams of information from multiple tasks.” When we try to multitask, what we are actually doing is inefficiently “task-switching.”
As you can see, productivity suffers when we multitask, but this is not the only consequence of it. Another short-term effect includes overindulgence, and in the long run, this can wreak havoc on health.
It might seem strange to think that multitasking can lead to overindulgence, but research indicates that distraction causes a person to crave more of what they miss out on. For example, if a person plays sudoku while eating lunch, they aren’t fully satisfied by solving the puzzle or their meal. In fact, people who multitask while eating tend to overindulge in food throughout the day. Or, people who scroll through social media while watching TV tend to engage in both activities more frequently.
This concept can also apply to gambling, gaming, and drinking alcohol, so it’s crucial to be mindful when we take part in activities that release “feel good” hormones such as dopamine. Or else we may have the urge to overindulge later on.
To combat this, being mindful can help us to savor the moment and anything we may be doing. While mindfulness is a simple concept, it’s difficult to practice in the midst of a busy day. Here are two tips to stay focused on the present moment.
Start the day off right. First thing in the morning, focus on body sensations for a few minutes. This can include tingling, sleepiness, thirst, and more. You can also tune into sensory stimulations like smell, sight, and sound. These practices are intended to help you notice what is happening to you and around you.
Walking meditation is another structured activity that can help to build a greater sense of mindfulness. Focus on the movement of walking and take in the environment. For example, listen to the chirping birds and notice the warmth of sunshine. Redirect any wandering thoughts to your current experience.
In today’s world of constant distraction, mindfulness is no easy task. But, if we slowed down to savor the things we enjoy, maybe we would be more satisfied and healthier overall.
Karissa Winkel is the family and community wellness agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. Contact her at 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.
