[NYT] Opinion - Stop Multitasking. No, Really — Just Stop It.

Summary

• The author sought to combat feelings of overwhelm and anxiety by taking on a personal endurance challenge.
• The challenge involved giving up listening to podcasts or music while doing various activities.
• The author realized that avoiding being fully present in activities was an unconscious addiction to not doing one thing at a time.
• The ability to focus on one activity at a time is considered crucial for thriving in an uncertain, crisis-prone future.
• Multitasking has been proven ineffective and incurs cognitive costs due to rapidly switching attention.
• External pressures and technological advances contribute to the urge to multitask.
• Philosophers and spiritual teachers emphasize the value of being present in a single activity.
• The allure of multitasking lies in the false promise of escaping human limitations and constraints.
• Surrendering to limitations and focusing on tasks enhances enjoyment and effectiveness.
• Prioritizing a few important tasks over trying to do everything is more productive.
• Pouring time, energy, and attention into fewer things leads to greater enjoyment and accomplishment.

Implication from the article

• Learning to be present in the moment can reduce stress and enhance overall well-being.