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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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Singletasking summary
Get More Done One Thing at a Time
15 mins
Brief summary
'Singletasking' by 'Devora Zack' is a how-to guide on staying focused in a world of distractions. It explains how multitasking can impair productivity and offers practical tips to help you accomplish more by doing less.
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Singletasking
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Key idea 1 of 7
Multitasking isn’t the answer to a hectic life; quite the contrary, it can even be fatal!
“Multitasking kills!” Now there’s a campaign sticker you thought you’d never see. Laugh all you want, but it’s actually true!
Indeed, multitasking causes the deaths of thousands of people as well as economic damages amounting to billions every year.
For example, did you know that distracted driving, such as driving while texting, talking on the phone, etc., is the second leading cause for car accidents after driving under the influence?
In fact, the American Automobile Association (AAA) recently discovered that about 67 percent of all American drivers use their phones while behind the wheel. As a result, tens of thousands of people are dying as an immediate consequence of people trying to pay attention to too many things at once.
The economic cost – the loss of property and the impact of injuries and loss of life – due to distracted driving is similarly astonishing, totalling $871 billion per year.
Not only is multitasking dangerous, it also won’t make you more productive.
In fact, there’s really no such thing as multitasking, per se. As Stanford University neuroscientist Dr. Eyal Ophir has shown in his studies, 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. This was demonstrated in a Harvard study conducted in 2011, which examined the relationship between multitasking and academic performance. The study revealed that our cognitive functions, especially in our memory, become increasingly limited while multitasking.
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What is Singletasking about?
Singletasking (2015) 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.
Singletasking Review
Singletasking (2015) by Devora Zack offers an insightful look into the power of focusing on one task at a time in a world of constant distractions. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- With its practical strategies and actionable techniques, it helps readers improve productivity and reduce stress by mastering the art of singletasking.
- Drawing on research and personal anecdotes, the book provides a convincing argument for the benefits of singletasking, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their focus and effectiveness.
- The author's engaging storytelling and relatable examples ensure that the book is never dull, providing an enjoyable and enlightening reading experience.
Who should read Singletasking?
- Anyone who wants to become more productive
- Anyone who wants to feel less stressed
- People who have a hard time getting things done
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Singletasking FAQs
What is the main message of Singletasking?
The main message of Singletasking is to focus on one task at a time to increase productivity and reduce stress.
How long does it take to read Singletasking?
The reading time for Singletasking varies depending on the reader's speed, but you can read the Blinkist summary in just a few minutes.
Is Singletasking a good book? Is it worth reading?
Singletasking is a valuable read for anyone looking to improve their focus and productivity. It provides practical tips and insights that can be easily implemented.
Who is the author of Singletasking?
The author of Singletasking is Devora Zack.
What to read after Singletasking?
If you're wondering what to read next after Singletasking, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- High Performance Habits by Brendon Burchard
- Get It Done by Ayelet Fishbach
- The Motivation Manifesto by Brendon Burchard
- Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
- Organize Tomorrow Today by Jason Selk
- Making It All Work by David Allen
- Eat That Frog! by Brian Tracy
- The Sleep Solution by W. Chris Winter
- 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do by Amy Morin
- The Myth of Multitasking by Dave Crenshaw