Is a MODICUM Enough?

Maybe you watch TV and talk on the phone at the same time. Or perhaps you go back and forth between a computer game and your math homework.

If either scenario applies to you, then you’re a “multitasker.” Multitasking means doing more than one thing at a time or switching back and forth from one activity to another.

In the past, people thought that multitasking was a good way to increase one’s productivity and efficiency. But that’s not true.

In fact, some research now shows that multitasking decreases productivity by about 40%. What’s more, switching back and forth between tasks makes it difficult to concentrate.

So whenever you find yourself bouncing back and forth between tasks and spending just a modicum (see definition below) of time on each one, slow down. It’s definitely better to focus on just one thing at a time!

Speak your mind: Why is it a good idea to spend more than a modicum of time completing an important task?

MODICUM: A small amount or limited quantity.