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Singletasking: Get More Done—One Thing at a Time
Your Mind Can't Be Two Places at Once
Too many of us have become addicted to the popular, enticing, dangerously misleading drug of multitasking. Devora Zack was once hooked herself. But she beat it and became more efficient, and you can too.
Zack marshals convincing neuroscientific evidence to prove that you really can't do more by trying to tackle several things at once--it's an illusion. There is a better way to deal with all the information and interruptions that bombard us today. Singletasking explains exactly how to clear and calm your mind, arrange your schedule and environment, and gently yet firmly manage the expectations of people around you so that you can accomplish a succession of tasks, one by one--and be infinitely more productive. Singletasking is the secret to success and sanity.
Too many of us have become addicted to the popular, enticing, dangerously misleading drug of multitasking. Devora Zack was once hooked herself. But she beat it and became more efficient, and you can too.
Zack marshals convincing neuroscientific evidence to prove that you really can't do more by trying to tackle several things at once--it's an illusion. There is a better way to deal with all the information and interruptions that bombard us today. Singletasking explains exactly how to clear and calm your mind, arrange your schedule and environment, and gently yet firmly manage the expectations of people around you so that you can accomplish a succession of tasks, one by one--and be infinitely more productive. Singletasking is the secret to success and sanity.
180 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 2, 2015
123 people are currently reading
927 people want to read
About the author
Devora Zack
27 books25 followersDevora Zack is a nationally recognized expert in the field of leadership development. Her consulting, networking strategies, seminars, corporate retreats, coaching, and strategic plans consistently result in improved productivity and morale.
Ms. Zack consults to dozens of diverse organizations in private industry, federal agencies, and the public sector.
Ms. Zack holds an MBA from Cornell University where she was a full-tuition merit scholar. Her BA, magna cum laude, is from University of Pennsylvania's Annenberg School for Communication. She is honored with active memberships in Phi Beta Kappa and Mensa.
Ms. Zack holds an MBA from Cornell University where she was a full-tuition merit scholar. Her BA, magna cum laude, is from University of Pennsylvania's Annenberg School for Communication. She is honored with active memberships in Phi Beta Kappa and Mensa.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
July 26, 2019
I think I could have been easily convinced that singletasking was a more efficient way of working if the author had provided stronger arguments. She references research that doesn’t exactly correlate to how singletasking is better in the working environment; for example, she cites the statistics of deaths caused by texting while driving, but that doesn’t necessarily equate to why singletasking is significantly better than multitasking in the office. Otherwise, most of her arguments are just her own personal opinions. Her advice also centers more around other areas like time management and eliminating distractions — while those are all valid things to work more efficiently, it isn’t truly about working on single tasks at a time like the whole point of the book is supposed to be about.
October 15, 2017
About the book: Singletasking tackles some of the common myths surrounding multitasking and productivity. Full of practical advice and tricks to help you get more from your day, Singletasking clearly demonstrates how immersive focus on a single task leads to a more efficient, and ultimately happier, life.
About the author: Devora Zack is a leadership consultant and founder of Only Connect Consulting. Her success in leadership consulting has served as the basis for her many books, including Networking for People Who Hate Networking and Managing for People Who Hate Managing.
My highlights:
What’s in it for me? Become less stressed and more focused – and get more things done.
Learn to do ONE thing at a time, and ONLY one thing.
Multitasking isn’t the answer to a hectic life; quite the contrary, it can even be fatal!
Our brain is simply incapable of focusing on multiple things simultaneously.Rather, it simply switches the focus of its selective attention between the various tasks it has to handle at any given moment. When your brain has to make the switch, your performance suffers, causing you to work less efficiently on the task you’re currently focused on.
Our brain is simply incapable of focusing on multiple things simultaneously.Rather, it simply switches the focus of its selective attention between the various tasks it has to handle at any given moment. When your brain has to make the switch, your performance suffers, causing you to work less efficiently on the task you’re currently focused on. Moreover, divided attention makes it more difficult for you to handle incoming data, as it hinders the information processing in your short- and long-term memory.
Our brains did not evolve to multitask.
Multitasking can also damage the brain. When you multitask too much, constant overstimulation and the stress associated with it cause the gray matter of your prefrontal cortex – the part of the brain responsible for complex thinking – to shrink.
Your brain releases a stress hormone called cortisol. This hormone reduces your ability to effectively complete any of those tasks, and further degenerates the hard-working neurons in your brain.In contrast, singletasking empowers you to achieve world-class performance.
Take control by developing an awareness of when your mind wanders and by eliminating distractions.
Multitasking doesn’t necessarily mean a conscious effort to engage in numerous activities at the same time. It could be as simple as thinking about things other than the immediate task at hand.
Prioritize what is most important in any particular situation and commit fully to that activity, guiding yourself back into focus when your mind wanders.
Get through your stressful day by implementing simple hacks and techniques which help you singletask.
The cluster tasking technique, which combines similar activities and tasks into a single group in order to help you work more effectively.
Setting a timeframe for each cluster, deciding how you want to spread them throughout your schedule and completing the tasks.
Built-in flexibility in your schedule.
Build a buffer into your schedule, an unanticipated call from your boss or a sudden, important incident won’t disrupt your routine, making it possible for you to singletask more efficiently.
Singletasking is the only way to give people your full attention.
Not only does singletasking improve your productivity at work, it also helps you further develop your social skills, empowering you to develop better, deeper connections with the people in your life.
Active listening, on the other hand, is a sign of respect, as you demonstrate to your conversation partner that you value both her and the conversation you’re having.
Free time will rejuvenate you and improve your quality of life.
Singletasking is most effective when combined with regular breaks.
Give your brain some time to calm down and replenish its energy.
It’s not unproductive to set aside some time solely for the purpose of reflection.
About the author: Devora Zack is a leadership consultant and founder of Only Connect Consulting. Her success in leadership consulting has served as the basis for her many books, including Networking for People Who Hate Networking and Managing for People Who Hate Managing.
My highlights:
What’s in it for me? Become less stressed and more focused – and get more things done.
Learn to do ONE thing at a time, and ONLY one thing.
Multitasking isn’t the answer to a hectic life; quite the contrary, it can even be fatal!
Our brain is simply incapable of focusing on multiple things simultaneously.Rather, it simply switches the focus of its selective attention between the various tasks it has to handle at any given moment. When your brain has to make the switch, your performance suffers, causing you to work less efficiently on the task you’re currently focused on.
Our brain is simply incapable of focusing on multiple things simultaneously.Rather, it simply switches the focus of its selective attention between the various tasks it has to handle at any given moment. When your brain has to make the switch, your performance suffers, causing you to work less efficiently on the task you’re currently focused on. Moreover, divided attention makes it more difficult for you to handle incoming data, as it hinders the information processing in your short- and long-term memory.
Our brains did not evolve to multitask.
Multitasking can also damage the brain. When you multitask too much, constant overstimulation and the stress associated with it cause the gray matter of your prefrontal cortex – the part of the brain responsible for complex thinking – to shrink.
Your brain releases a stress hormone called cortisol. This hormone reduces your ability to effectively complete any of those tasks, and further degenerates the hard-working neurons in your brain.In contrast, singletasking empowers you to achieve world-class performance.
Take control by developing an awareness of when your mind wanders and by eliminating distractions.
Multitasking doesn’t necessarily mean a conscious effort to engage in numerous activities at the same time. It could be as simple as thinking about things other than the immediate task at hand.
Prioritize what is most important in any particular situation and commit fully to that activity, guiding yourself back into focus when your mind wanders.
Get through your stressful day by implementing simple hacks and techniques which help you singletask.
The cluster tasking technique, which combines similar activities and tasks into a single group in order to help you work more effectively.
Setting a timeframe for each cluster, deciding how you want to spread them throughout your schedule and completing the tasks.
Built-in flexibility in your schedule.
Build a buffer into your schedule, an unanticipated call from your boss or a sudden, important incident won’t disrupt your routine, making it possible for you to singletask more efficiently.
Singletasking is the only way to give people your full attention.
Not only does singletasking improve your productivity at work, it also helps you further develop your social skills, empowering you to develop better, deeper connections with the people in your life.
Active listening, on the other hand, is a sign of respect, as you demonstrate to your conversation partner that you value both her and the conversation you’re having.
Free time will rejuvenate you and improve your quality of life.
Singletasking is most effective when combined with regular breaks.
Give your brain some time to calm down and replenish its energy.
It’s not unproductive to set aside some time solely for the purpose of reflection.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2024
HIGHLIGHTS:
1. Multitasking pulls our attention toward UNRELATED obligations as we work.
2.. WE ARE SCATTERED:
- We are losing our ability to focus.
- Multi-taskers are only halfway paying attention.
- We “task-switch”.
3. "PARKING LOT”
– place unrelated insights aside until the time comes to redirect your mind.
- Taking an idea out of your head and onto a page is at times necessary to maintain full concentration.
- A visible list makes capturing parking lot items clear and overt.
4. CLUSTER TASKING:
– do similar things together 1-3x day.
- Conversation chains can be eliminated by saying: “no need to reply. Thanks, signing off for the day.”
- “Only respond if there is a change. {Colleague} can handle it, no need to cc me. Great. See you then; I’m off-line for the next couple of hours; contact {colleague} for arrangements.”
5. ZONED OUT:
- "Plugged-in" = "Zoned-Out": highly successful, high-income professionals are more likely to perceive texting, emailing, and being online in meetings as unprofessional and an annoyance (inappropriate, disrespectful, rude).
- Senior professionals equate being constantly plugged in as lacking respect, attention, listening, and power.
6. TIMES-SHIFTING:
- Time-shifting means alternating periods of high productivity with time to decompress.
- Don’t be constantly available.
7. DISTRACTION:
The level of distraction among university students is epidemic.
8. NO MEMORY:
The result is we remember less or nothing at all.
9. NOVELTY:
- The allure of multi-tasking is the craving for novelty.
- When stimuli signal a change to the status quo, dopamine is released.
- This surge contributes to the attraction of new tasks over what we are currently doing.
10. SHRINKAGE:
– overloading yourself with too many competing stimuli shrinks the brain.
1. Multitasking pulls our attention toward UNRELATED obligations as we work.
2.. WE ARE SCATTERED:
- We are losing our ability to focus.
- Multi-taskers are only halfway paying attention.
- We “task-switch”.
3. "PARKING LOT”
– place unrelated insights aside until the time comes to redirect your mind.
- Taking an idea out of your head and onto a page is at times necessary to maintain full concentration.
- A visible list makes capturing parking lot items clear and overt.
4. CLUSTER TASKING:
– do similar things together 1-3x day.
- Conversation chains can be eliminated by saying: “no need to reply. Thanks, signing off for the day.”
- “Only respond if there is a change. {Colleague} can handle it, no need to cc me. Great. See you then; I’m off-line for the next couple of hours; contact {colleague} for arrangements.”
5. ZONED OUT:
- "Plugged-in" = "Zoned-Out": highly successful, high-income professionals are more likely to perceive texting, emailing, and being online in meetings as unprofessional and an annoyance (inappropriate, disrespectful, rude).
- Senior professionals equate being constantly plugged in as lacking respect, attention, listening, and power.
6. TIMES-SHIFTING:
- Time-shifting means alternating periods of high productivity with time to decompress.
- Don’t be constantly available.
7. DISTRACTION:
The level of distraction among university students is epidemic.
8. NO MEMORY:
The result is we remember less or nothing at all.
9. NOVELTY:
- The allure of multi-tasking is the craving for novelty.
- When stimuli signal a change to the status quo, dopamine is released.
- This surge contributes to the attraction of new tasks over what we are currently doing.
10. SHRINKAGE:
– overloading yourself with too many competing stimuli shrinks the brain.
March 1, 2018
можно присудить премию "Капитан Очевидность".
January 3, 2018
Средняя книга о действительно важной проблеме - т.н. "многозадачности" - и единственном способе ее решения - однозначности, т.е. решении одной задачи за раз, полном фокусировании на этой задаче, глубоком погружении в дело, которым занимаешься прямо сейчас.
На мой взгляд, это не лучшая книга по данной теме, намного полезнее "В работу с головой" Кэла Ньюпорта (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...), но книга Деворы Зак короткая и позволяет быстро погрузиться в проблематику и получить несколько работающих инструментов для приобретения навыка однозначности, т.е. умения делать больше, но по одному делу за раз.
Предлагаемые автором инструменты банальные (ведение дневника, прогулки, медитация, группировка типовых задач, отказ от "политики открытых дверей", отказ от социальных сетей, планирование, цифровой детокс), важнее знать принцип: наибольшая продуктивность возможна в состоянии потока, которое невозможно достичь при постоянном переключении с задачи на задачу ("многозадачность").
Ещё одним достоинством являются эпиграфы к разделам книги: "Времени на то, чтобы сделать всё как следует, никогда не хватает, зато всегда есть время на то, чтобы всё переделать", "Быть везде, значит не быть нигде".
И главный эпиграф и квинтэссенция всей книги: "Успешный человек - это средний человек, только сосредоточенный".
На мой взгляд, это не лучшая книга по данной теме, намного полезнее "В работу с головой" Кэла Ньюпорта (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...), но книга Деворы Зак короткая и позволяет быстро погрузиться в проблематику и получить несколько работающих инструментов для приобретения навыка однозначности, т.е. умения делать больше, но по одному делу за раз.
Предлагаемые автором инструменты банальные (ведение дневника, прогулки, медитация, группировка типовых задач, отказ от "политики открытых дверей", отказ от социальных сетей, планирование, цифровой детокс), важнее знать принцип: наибольшая продуктивность возможна в состоянии потока, которое невозможно достичь при постоянном переключении с задачи на задачу ("многозадачность").
Ещё одним достоинством являются эпиграфы к разделам книги: "Времени на то, чтобы сделать всё как следует, никогда не хватает, зато всегда есть время на то, чтобы всё переделать", "Быть везде, значит не быть нигде".
И главный эпиграф и квинтэссенция всей книги: "Успешный человек - это средний человек, только сосредоточенный".
June 21, 2015
I've read an early manuscript version of this book, and I think it will be a huge bestseller. Everyone struggles with multitasking and running around like a chicken with its heat cut off, leading to stress, lack of sleep, and all kinds of mental and health woes. Devora Zack uses her unique blend of directness and humor to help people focus on Singletasking instead, which can lead to even greater daily, weekly, and monthly productivity with more satisfaction and sustainability. Just like Networking for People Who Hate Networking, Devora hits it out of the park again.
October 2, 2019
3.5 stars
The book was good, it shows the difference between “multitasking” and singletasking and the importance of singletasking approach in everyday life. It could be more concrete, because most of us are “multitaskers” with only a little imagination how to deal with things and time to become singletaskers in a short period of time.
The book was good, it shows the difference between “multitasking” and singletasking and the importance of singletasking approach in everyday life. It could be more concrete, because most of us are “multitaskers” with only a little imagination how to deal with things and time to become singletaskers in a short period of time.
June 28, 2021
A very good topic for the current working climate. Funny thing is that Multitasking doesn't even exist, many people confuse it with task-switching. But the good thing is that Singletasking is the right path for all of us. The book has some very good examples on how to deal with work utilization at your workplace. Recommend it to all managers!
July 1, 2023
Хорошая ёмкая книга, чтобы еще раз напомнить себе, что надо избавляться от привычки делать несколько дел одновременно. Не хватило небольшой «домашки», чтобы закрепить и эффект ушел сразу после прочтения
May 14, 2024
Thesis is right and very relevant nowadays but that’s unfortunately pretty much everything you get. Book is full of empty platitudes and literally a lot of nothing. Paradox of this book about singletasking is that it is a total multitasking of thoughts and ideas without any clear structure or depth. Unnatural and grotesque workplace examples are one huge cringe. Save yourself a few bucks or hours and better run simple ChatGPT prompt like “Explain singletasking in simple terms”.
May 26, 2021
A short and sweet examination of the value of doing one-thing-at-a-time. This isn't going to come out and hit you with advice you haven't heard elsewhere, but Devora Zack has done an excellent job of creating a comprehensive, and accessible guide to "singletasking" aka mono-tasking.
February 28, 2016
This is a really really great book for busy people (which we all are these days). I picked up Singletasking because I had become disenchanted with the concept of multitasking. When I multitasked, I always felt so scattered and overwhelmed, like I would never actually get anything done, since no individual tasks ever seemed to get finished. Ironically, it took me months to finish this book, since I had to read many other books for school, etc. in the time after I started it. Debora Zack is very practical with her insights, and the book is highly interactive, providing many opportunities to self-reflect, and draw direct transfers between the content of the book and our personal and professional lives. I love the way that she frames Singletasking- as a way to form more respectful, meaningful relationships, and to find more meaning in daily activities. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who feels pulled in too many directions.
September 10, 2015
Singletasking. My eyes have been opened and I completely agree with this premise. You can live a richer, fuller, more accomplished life by giving your full attention to the task, or person, at hand instead of multitasking. Most of this book is geared to those in the workforce, but as a stay-at-home mom, I still found it helpful. The last chapter was especially insightful for me. I love this quote the author uses from a song: "Do you live the days you go through?" I also really like the author's witty writing style. A helpful and quick read.
May 27, 2015
What a great book! It's about incorporating singletasking into your life instead of multitasking. There are numerous examples throughout the book, as well as sections to jot down ideas from your own life. This book is intended to make a difference in your personal life as well as your career, changing the way you think about handling all tasks. I know that I will definitely be more conscious about my future order of operations due to this book.
January 17, 2016
I could not agree less with the author in terms of the subject of the book. Focusing on a single task absolutely brings out wonderful results, free from distractions. Though parts of the book sound repetitive (and hence the 3*), the author provides some valuable ideas to achieve a singular focus in whatever you do. Read it, if you get the time!
March 13, 2016
Highly recommend this book. Multitasking has been recommended for so long that we have forgotten the benefits of focusing on one thing at a time.
March 22, 2017
Singletasking is basically a fancy word that means "Apply mindfulness to your work." And yes, "mindfulness" seems to be the latest in a chain of self-help buzzwords meant to give you instant clarity and happiness and wealth and whatever, but I've gained a lot of value from trying to remain present in my life and focused; Devora Zack's Singletasking is a quick shot of Mindfulness Light for the Business-Oriented Person. Unless you haven't read up about mindfulness or meditation before there's likely won't be any mind-blowing revelations, but it does a great job of showing how focusing on a single task instead of jumping from source to source all day can increase productivity and happiness.
I notice in myself a habit to jump from fire to fire, handling whatever the latest emergency incident is without truly evaluating if I really NEED to jump over to that task. Singletasking makes it clear that learning how to set boundaries for yourself creates optimal situations for both yourself and others; splitting your time between the person/task in front of you and the many others that are just a notification/email away means that none of those situations actually get your best work. Though common thoughts say that "multitasking" is good and necessary, it just doesn't seem to leave us in a better position in the long-run. "Task-switching," as Devora calls it, means that we're constantly swapping our focus between sources, meaning we'll inevitably miss something important from one of them. I did it just last night while on Twitter and playing Mass Effect: Andromeda; I missed the entire context for the first dialog prompt I was supposed to answer!
Zack's book comes with plenty of examples and practice opportunities for folks who need to exercise those focus muscles (like myself). She also takes the time to relate to the reader, and puts the concepts in an easily-digestible format. It's also a quick read; I ran through it in just under a couple of hours while on a plane (and removed from the distractions of the internet...it was awful easy to singletask reading up there).
I picked up the book as part of a bundle a while ago, so I didn't pay the full $9.99 cost of admission. Particularly at that price, I'd recommend reading the book at least once every couple of months; applying the concepts of Singletasking is something that'll take implementation over time, and I think coming back to the book will serve as a helpful refresher for folks trying to streamline their work and life.
I notice in myself a habit to jump from fire to fire, handling whatever the latest emergency incident is without truly evaluating if I really NEED to jump over to that task. Singletasking makes it clear that learning how to set boundaries for yourself creates optimal situations for both yourself and others; splitting your time between the person/task in front of you and the many others that are just a notification/email away means that none of those situations actually get your best work. Though common thoughts say that "multitasking" is good and necessary, it just doesn't seem to leave us in a better position in the long-run. "Task-switching," as Devora calls it, means that we're constantly swapping our focus between sources, meaning we'll inevitably miss something important from one of them. I did it just last night while on Twitter and playing Mass Effect: Andromeda; I missed the entire context for the first dialog prompt I was supposed to answer!
Zack's book comes with plenty of examples and practice opportunities for folks who need to exercise those focus muscles (like myself). She also takes the time to relate to the reader, and puts the concepts in an easily-digestible format. It's also a quick read; I ran through it in just under a couple of hours while on a plane (and removed from the distractions of the internet...it was awful easy to singletask reading up there).
I picked up the book as part of a bundle a while ago, so I didn't pay the full $9.99 cost of admission. Particularly at that price, I'd recommend reading the book at least once every couple of months; applying the concepts of Singletasking is something that'll take implementation over time, and I think coming back to the book will serve as a helpful refresher for folks trying to streamline their work and life.
August 15, 2017
The Story of the Real Life Deus ex Machina
I've been feeling really anxious and insecure about school and about how I'm always so busy and yet unable to get anything done. Today, I was feeling restless again, so I took a walk just to get out of the house and do something else for a change. I bought some groceries and was heading back home when, on a whim, I decided to walk past the entrance to my building and head to the bookstore nearby. I was browsing aimlessly when the title of this book caught my eye. I read through the first few pages and was hooked. It's a short read: you get sucked in easily and the author's distinct voice and humour, the real-life examples, and her solid advice are more than enough to keep you engrossed.
I finished the book there, in one uncomfortable standing, and came home, still feeling anxious and insecure, but now acutely more aware of my surroundings, my mind, and my really incredibly awful habits. Later, I tried this relatively foreign concept of that thing they call… 'focusing'… and with Spotify closed, my phone in my bag, and a promise to myself to remain in the moment, I finished editing an essay I've been putting off.
As my sister scoffed, it's probably all common sense, but for some reason I feel like this book has already helped me.
I've been feeling really anxious and insecure about school and about how I'm always so busy and yet unable to get anything done. Today, I was feeling restless again, so I took a walk just to get out of the house and do something else for a change. I bought some groceries and was heading back home when, on a whim, I decided to walk past the entrance to my building and head to the bookstore nearby. I was browsing aimlessly when the title of this book caught my eye. I read through the first few pages and was hooked. It's a short read: you get sucked in easily and the author's distinct voice and humour, the real-life examples, and her solid advice are more than enough to keep you engrossed.
I finished the book there, in one uncomfortable standing, and came home, still feeling anxious and insecure, but now acutely more aware of my surroundings, my mind, and my really incredibly awful habits. Later, I tried this relatively foreign concept of that thing they call… 'focusing'… and with Spotify closed, my phone in my bag, and a promise to myself to remain in the moment, I finished editing an essay I've been putting off.
As my sister scoffed, it's probably all common sense, but for some reason I feel like this book has already helped me.
July 24, 2017
I read this book thanks to Blinkist.
The key message in these blinks:
Contrary to popular belief, the key to being more productive is not filling your schedule and tackling everything at once. Rather, you should singletask, or prioritize your tasks and work through them one at a time with focus and tranquility.
Actionable advice:
Cut the fat from your everyday tasks.
The next time you’re at the office, scan your tasks before doing anything else in order to figure out what’s really essential. Make a list that outlines these crucial few tasks, along with the many other trivial things you have to take care of. By cutting the fat and focusing on what’s really important first, you can increase the quality of your work.
Suggested further reading:
Mini Habits by Stephen Guise
Mini Habits (2013) explains the logic behind an innovative approach to achieving your goals. Motivation and ambition aren’t necessarily what will drive you to success; rather, it’s your small day-to-day habits that will really get you on the right track.
The key message in these blinks:
Contrary to popular belief, the key to being more productive is not filling your schedule and tackling everything at once. Rather, you should singletask, or prioritize your tasks and work through them one at a time with focus and tranquility.
Actionable advice:
Cut the fat from your everyday tasks.
The next time you’re at the office, scan your tasks before doing anything else in order to figure out what’s really essential. Make a list that outlines these crucial few tasks, along with the many other trivial things you have to take care of. By cutting the fat and focusing on what’s really important first, you can increase the quality of your work.
Suggested further reading:
Mini Habits by Stephen Guise
Mini Habits (2013) explains the logic behind an innovative approach to achieving your goals. Motivation and ambition aren’t necessarily what will drive you to success; rather, it’s your small day-to-day habits that will really get you on the right track.
November 16, 2018
Be In The Moment
Singletasking is a short straightforward self-help motivational genre guide to controlling of one's time. Zack's basic thesis is that rapid task switching is both time consuming and the cause of poor performance, negatively affecting the quality of work and relationships. In particular she singles out poor handling of disruptive technology such as cell phones as a culprit. As with most such books the author peppers each chapter with anecdotes, anti-patterns and other validations to keep the reader interested, as well as short quizzes and exercises to help the reader focus on assorted issues.
Though fairly obvious in its recommendations and conclusions IMV one should read one or two such books annually as part of a professional tune up, much as one gets an annual shot to ward off the flu. Everyone gets into bad habits that we should reflect on and try to improve – one at a time. ;-)
Singletasking is a short straightforward self-help motivational genre guide to controlling of one's time. Zack's basic thesis is that rapid task switching is both time consuming and the cause of poor performance, negatively affecting the quality of work and relationships. In particular she singles out poor handling of disruptive technology such as cell phones as a culprit. As with most such books the author peppers each chapter with anecdotes, anti-patterns and other validations to keep the reader interested, as well as short quizzes and exercises to help the reader focus on assorted issues.
Though fairly obvious in its recommendations and conclusions IMV one should read one or two such books annually as part of a professional tune up, much as one gets an annual shot to ward off the flu. Everyone gets into bad habits that we should reflect on and try to improve – one at a time. ;-)
June 17, 2017
The Importance of Singletasking
Devora Zack's explanation of why multitasking is merely a fantasy and not realistic really opened my eyes to how I do tasks on the day-to-day. From her well designed exercises to her real life examples showcase just how important it is to do one thing at a time.
The importance of singletasking isn't seen while we operate in our day-to-day lives, however, I found that reading the book forced me to think in the ways that I need to change my daily train of thought. I was a firm believer in the multitasking principle, however, I realize how shallow that thought process was.
I will definitely be modifying my thought process to be more in-line with the singletasking thought processes and believe that this change will make me more productive and a happier person.
Cross Posted on Scribd
Devora Zack's explanation of why multitasking is merely a fantasy and not realistic really opened my eyes to how I do tasks on the day-to-day. From her well designed exercises to her real life examples showcase just how important it is to do one thing at a time.
The importance of singletasking isn't seen while we operate in our day-to-day lives, however, I found that reading the book forced me to think in the ways that I need to change my daily train of thought. I was a firm believer in the multitasking principle, however, I realize how shallow that thought process was.
I will definitely be modifying my thought process to be more in-line with the singletasking thought processes and believe that this change will make me more productive and a happier person.
Cross Posted on Scribd
June 26, 2017
There's not much to this book. It's double spaced and there are "worksheets" included, so that I found myself wanted MORE. More content. But the message is duly noted, we cannot truly do more than one thing at a time. So focus what you are doing, enjoy it, be fully present, and get it done to completion before moving on to the next task. And put the electronics away, okay? Listen to the person you are with, even if it is yourself! Mindfulness requires singletasking, and I'm all about that. I remind myself often that every task, no matter how mundane, when done with mindfulness and attention, strengthens me and empowers me.
May 4, 2023
No tenía tantas expectativas con esta lectura ya que he tenido la oportunidad de leer sobre el tema en otros libros y son muy similares. este libro es una recolección de historias y experiencias sobre el manejo de la monotarea y como la autora llevaba el multitasking en su día a día, toma de referencia estudios científicos realizados en torno al tema y por igual referencias de autores tratando el tema de la desde el punto psicológico. Solo puede sacar algunas notas que reflejan ideas como incursionar y controlar la monotarea, aplicarla no solo en el trabajo sino también con nuestros familiares y amigos.
January 22, 2020
El tema del libro me parece muy necesario en la sociedad que vivimos. Vivimos todos los días llenos de estímulos externos y con la tecnología que nos mantiene conectados todo el día. ¿Cuánto tiempo estamos realmente prestando atención? ¿Haríamos mejor las cosas si prestaramos más atención? Me gusta que la autora argumenta a través de la neurociencia la necesidad de realizar una cosa a la vez. Es un libro simple, rápido de leer, pero pone un tema del que debemos reflexionar y tomar acción al respecto para finalmente ser más felices.
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August 5, 2024هراء للاسف :)
قرأت بالطبع النسخة العربية تحت عنوان "الانشغال بمهمة واحدة" طبعة جرير
رغم اني اتفق مع هذه الفلسفة في الانجاز الا ان الكاتبة كانت تقوم بتشتيت الموضوعات ،فمثلا تقوم برواية قصة احد عملائها تارة ،من ثم تقوم بالتحدث عن نفسها تارة اخرى ، تتحدث عن قصص جانبية ،تبالغ في سرد الامثلة ،وهكذا
قد يكون الشيء الوحيد الذي يشفع هو انها تقوم بذكر مصادر لكل كلامها
حتى الجانب التطبيقي في الكتاب ليس بذلك الاهمية
اقترح بمشاهدة فديو تلخيصي لكتاب يتحدث في نفس الموضوع تحت اسم "الشيء الوحيد"
https://youtu.be/wR9sfBeLZ_k
قرأت بالطبع النسخة العربية تحت عنوان "الانشغال بمهمة واحدة" طبعة جرير
رغم اني اتفق مع هذه الفلسفة في الانجاز الا ان الكاتبة كانت تقوم بتشتيت الموضوعات ،فمثلا تقوم برواية قصة احد عملائها تارة ،من ثم تقوم بالتحدث عن نفسها تارة اخرى ، تتحدث عن قصص جانبية ،تبالغ في سرد الامثلة ،وهكذا
قد يكون الشيء الوحيد الذي يشفع هو انها تقوم بذكر مصادر لكل كلامها
حتى الجانب التطبيقي في الكتاب ليس بذلك الاهمية
اقترح بمشاهدة فديو تلخيصي لكتاب يتحدث في نفس الموضوع تحت اسم "الشيء الوحيد"
https://youtu.be/wR9sfBeLZ_k
February 19, 2017
Read it in Russian. Very short book, simple. Tells a lot of what I already know but do not pay much attention.
Good advice is to eliminate the distractors such as mobile devices.
Meditation, diary helps to put order to the daily flow of thoughts.
"В любой промежуток времени ты можешь делать либо одно дело хорошо, либо два, но плохо".
Habits (driving/walking usual route, eating) can be multitasked:
Многозадачность подразумевает объединение двух видов деятельности, из которых хотя бы одному требуется меньше внимания. Те действия, которые контролируются подсознанием, могут осуществляться одновременно с сознательными: они не попадают в полосу «многозадачности». Эти «простые» действия в основном автоматические, не требуют вмешательства сознания и концентрации внимания.
Первый шаг на пути к преодолению всех этих помех —достижение полной осознанности.
Diary and meditation may help to develop order to your thoughts:
Многим трудно заставить себя подумать о чем-то. Если вы создадите для своих мыслей систему или структуру, то процесс пойдет легче. В этом вам поможет ведение дневника. 10–15 минут работы с ним в день помогут вам правильно оценить и систематизировать свои мысли. Для некоторых людей волшебным средством могут стать прогулки, которые проясняют голову. Некоторые говорят, что даже нескольких минут медитации в день им достаточно, чтобы их жизнь протекала более ровно.
Flow is being fully involved here and now.
Погружение человека в выполняемое дело означает полное сосредоточение на решаемой задаче. Тогда вы легко можете достичь состояния потока. Эта концепция изложена в книге Михая Чиксентмихайи «Поток». Попадание в состояние потока —это такое глубокое включение в какую-то деятельность, при котором человек ощущает максимальный прилив способностей и профессионализма.
Переключение с задачи на задачу практически исключает возможность достижения состояния потока.
Сделав паузу, чтобы записать постороннюю в данный момент мысль, вы не нарушаете принцип однозадачности.
Когда вы выполняете на своем компьютере действительно важную работу, отключите связь с интернетом, чтобы полностью сосредоточиться.
Мы достигаем большего, организуя в процессе работы небольшие паузы для отдыха.
Если перед вами неотложная и пугающая вас задача, старайтесь решать ее как можно раньше, в самом начале дня.
По диагонали просмотрите самые срочные запросы или обращения и немедленно выполните тот из них, который займет минуту или даже меньше. Это может быть не требующий особых размышлений быстрый ответ на электронное сообщение, отказ от несущественного предложения, ответ на записанный в голосовой почте звонок или ответ с согласием на время какого-то мероприятия. Дальше выберите задачи, которые можно решить меньше чем за 10 минут. Займитесь ими как можно раньше с утра. Оставьте те, которые могут потребовать до часа вашего времени. Распланируйте их выполнение на следующие несколько дней.
Перерывы
Одна из важнейших составляющих умения всецело погружаться в то дело, которым вы в данный момент занимаетесь, —способность планировать и устраивать себе регулярные перерывы. Практика однозадачности особенно эффективна тогда, когда совмещается с хорошо спланированными короткими «отключениями» от дела.
Обед с друзьями в ресторане с условием: кто первый использует электронное устройство, тот и заплатит по счету.
Помните: приобретение навыка попадания в состояние потока в свободное время увеличивает способность целенаправленно сосредоточиваться и на работе.
«Клубов медленного чтения» ? интересно
Просмотр фильма в кинотеатре, а не дома имеет много психологических преимуществ.
Тесная связь между ощущением счастья и двумя когнитивными процессами:
1/ способностью человека видеть смысл во всех моментах своей жизни и
2/ его способностью побеждать губительную боязнь за результат.
Мы утрачиваем способность радоваться жизни и удивляемся, куда все время спешим. Приверженность однозадачности включает в себя открытость моментам, которые требуют полного погружения в них.
Good advice is to eliminate the distractors such as mobile devices.
Meditation, diary helps to put order to the daily flow of thoughts.
"В любой промежуток времени ты можешь делать либо одно дело хорошо, либо два, но плохо".
Habits (driving/walking usual route, eating) can be multitasked:
Многозадачность подразумевает объединение двух видов деятельности, из которых хотя бы одному требуется меньше внимания. Те действия, которые контролируются подсознанием, могут осуществляться одновременно с сознательными: они не попадают в полосу «многозадачности». Эти «простые» действия в основном автоматические, не требуют вмешательства сознания и концентрации внимания.
Первый шаг на пути к преодолению всех этих помех —достижение полной осознанности.
Diary and meditation may help to develop order to your thoughts:
Многим трудно заставить себя подумать о чем-то. Если вы создадите для своих мыслей систему или структуру, то процесс пойдет легче. В этом вам поможет ведение дневника. 10–15 минут работы с ним в день помогут вам правильно оценить и систематизировать свои мысли. Для некоторых людей волшебным средством могут стать прогулки, которые проясняют голову. Некоторые говорят, что даже нескольких минут медитации в день им достаточно, чтобы их жизнь протекала более ровно.
Flow is being fully involved here and now.
Погружение человека в выполняемое дело означает полное сосредоточение на решаемой задаче. Тогда вы легко можете достичь состояния потока. Эта концепция изложена в книге Михая Чиксентмихайи «Поток». Попадание в состояние потока —это такое глубокое включение в какую-то деятельность, при котором человек ощущает максимальный прилив способностей и профессионализма.
Переключение с задачи на задачу практически исключает возможность достижения состояния потока.
Сделав паузу, чтобы записать постороннюю в данный момент мысль, вы не нарушаете принцип однозадачности.
Когда вы выполняете на своем компьютере действительно важную работу, отключите связь с интернетом, чтобы полностью сосредоточиться.
Мы достигаем большего, организуя в процессе работы небольшие паузы для отдыха.
Если перед вами неотложная и пугающая вас задача, старайтесь решать ее как можно раньше, в самом начале дня.
По диагонали просмотрите самые срочные запросы или обращения и немедленно выполните тот из них, который займет минуту или даже меньше. Это может быть не требующий особых размышлений быстрый ответ на электронное сообщение, отказ от несущественного предложения, ответ на записанный в голосовой почте звонок или ответ с согласием на время какого-то мероприятия. Дальше выберите задачи, которые можно решить меньше чем за 10 минут. Займитесь ими как можно раньше с утра. Оставьте те, которые могут потребовать до часа вашего времени. Распланируйте их выполнение на следующие несколько дней.
Перерывы
Одна из важнейших составляющих умения всецело погружаться в то дело, которым вы в данный момент занимаетесь, —способность планировать и устраивать себе регулярные перерывы. Практика однозадачности особенно эффективна тогда, когда совмещается с хорошо спланированными короткими «отключениями» от дела.
Обед с друзьями в ресторане с условием: кто первый использует электронное устройство, тот и заплатит по счету.
Помните: приобретение навыка попадания в состояние потока в свободное время увеличивает способность целенаправленно сосредоточиваться и на работе.
«Клубов медленного чтения» ? интересно
Просмотр фильма в кинотеатре, а не дома имеет много психологических преимуществ.
Тесная связь между ощущением счастья и двумя когнитивными процессами:
1/ способностью человека видеть смысл во всех моментах своей жизни и
2/ его способностью побеждать губительную боязнь за результат.
Мы утрачиваем способность радоваться жизни и удивляемся, куда все время спешим. Приверженность однозадачности включает в себя открытость моментам, которые требуют полного погружения в них.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2017
When you multitask too much, constant overstimulation and the stress associated with it cause the gray matter of your prefrontal cortex – the part of the brain responsible for complex thinking – to shrink. Focus at one thing at a time and stay in the 'flow' zone. Being more productive is not filling your schedule and tackling everything at once. Rather, you should singletask, or prioritize your tasks and work through them one at a time with focus and tranquility.
December 25, 2020
Probably 2.5 stars for me. Overall premise: single-tasking is more efficient and will enable you to get things done more accurately, but is difficult in our environment of constant distractions. I agree that her arguments make sense. There are practical methods to implement. However, I do feel like this book, despite its short length, honestly could have been compacted into an article. I'm just glad I bought this used for a couple dollars instead of paying more.
January 7, 2021
Excellent book for starting your year off right
This book was my first read of 2021 and proved to be perfect motivation to help me achieve my New Year's resolution of single tasking. While many of the concepts discussed were familiar to me, the author does an excellent job tying in these concepts with research, self evaluation tools and good humor. It is a quick read and provided the right encouragement and motivation I needed.
This book was my first read of 2021 and proved to be perfect motivation to help me achieve my New Year's resolution of single tasking. While many of the concepts discussed were familiar to me, the author does an excellent job tying in these concepts with research, self evaluation tools and good humor. It is a quick read and provided the right encouragement and motivation I needed.
September 14, 2022
I was really optimistic at the start of the book because "singletasking" as an idea really resonates with me. I felt the book started strong and focused, but lost the plot just before the halfway mark, devolving into generic self-help advice that boils down to "just be better and more efficient and stuff" instead of getting more granular about singletasking.
The guru-ness of the author also became a little offputting. I struggled to finish the book despite my initial excitement.
The guru-ness of the author also became a little offputting. I struggled to finish the book despite my initial excitement.
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