Do you pride yourself on your ability to multi-task? I know I do. I’ve even shared it as one of my top strengths in an interview. The problem is, that very “strength” contributes negatively to my stress level. The brain cannot really multi-task. It can only focus on one thing at a time. Our multi-tasking is simply just being good at focusing quickly on one thing after another. Research shows that people who do not focus on one thing at a time report feeling overwhelmed and less content with their jobs. I’ve noticed when I encourage myself to focus on a task till it is complete vs jumping from one thing to another I feel calmer and time seems to slow down. I get that work places are often full of interruptions but I have found that if I just remind myself to be present in the moment, even with the interruptions, my stress level plummets. Give it a try. Keep reminding yourself to be present no matter how crazy things get and then enjoy the calm you feel.
Have an Amazing Monday, (and everyday!)
Leanna Fredrich, Stress, Leadership and Career Management Coach
Adv. EFT, Adv. Psych-K
PS: Still having troubles staying calm and focused? Here’s an EFT script to tap along with…
Karate Chop:
Even though I am feeling overwhelmed I love and accept myself anyway.
Even though I am feeling pulled a hundred different ways I love myself anyway.
Even though I will never get this all done I accept myself anyway.
Eyebrow: So many things to do.
Side of eye: I can’t focus.
Under eye: All these interruptions.
Under nose: All these tasks.
Chin point: Too much to do.
Collarbone; All these responsibilities.
Under Arm: All this pressure.
Top of head: I feel so tense.
When your anxiety comes down to about a 5 or less on a scale of 1-10 then you may move to the positive round.
Positive Round:
Eyebrow: I am feeling a little bit calmer.
Side of eye: I love focusing on what I am doing in the moment.
Under eye: I am moving through my day smoothly.
Under nose: All is well.
Chin point: I love feeling focused and calm.
Collar bone: I am good at what I do.
Under arm: I focus on one task at a time.
Top of head: All is well.