The Power of Single-Tasking: A Prescription for Productivity and Well-Being

In the high-stakes world of medicine, multitasking often feels like a necessity. You're charting patient notes, responding to urgent messages, and mentally preparing for your next appointment—all at once. But what if this constant juggling is costing you more than it’s giving?

Research shows that multitasking reduces efficiency and increases cognitive load, leading to errors and burnout. There’s another way: single-tasking. This practice isn’t about doing less but about being fully present with one task at a time. It’s a shift that not only boosts productivity but also fosters physical and mental well-being.

The Productivity Impact of Single-Tasking

Multitasking can feel like the only way to meet the demands of a busy schedule, but studies suggest it’s less effective than we think. Each time you switch between tasks, your brain must refocus, which leads to wasted time and diminished attention.

In contrast, single-tasking allows for deeper focus and higher-quality outcomes. Imagine this: instead of dividing your attention between patient charting and checking emails, you fully immerse yourself in one, then move on to the next. You complete each with clarity, and the reduced cognitive strain leaves you with more energy for the next task.

The Somatic Impact of Single-Tasking

Beyond productivity, multitasking has significant effects on your body. Constant task-switching triggers your nervous system to remain in a heightened state, increasing cortisol levels and perpetuating stress.

Single-tasking, however, offers a way to ground yourself. When you focus entirely on one task, your body follows suit, often resulting in reduced tension and a calmer mind. For example, taking a moment to pause, breathe deeply, and redirect your attention before entering a patient’s room can create a sense of calm that benefits both you and your patient.

Experiment Ideas for Physicians

Here are a few ways to explore single-tasking in your daily routine:

1. Deep Focus Sessions
   Choose a 30-minute block of time to work on a specific task, like charting, with no interruptions. Notice how much more you accomplish when your focus isn’t divided.

2. Micro-Pause Transitions
   Before moving from one patient to the next, take three slow, intentional breaths. Use this as a reset to focus fully on the next interaction.

3. Digital Boundaries
   Silence notifications during critical tasks, such as reviewing labs or having patient consultations. Experiment with how this impacts your focus and efficiency.

Single-tasking may seem counterintuitive in a field that demands so much, but it’s a practice with transformative potential. By focusing fully on one task at a time, you can improve both the quality of your work and your personal well-being.

Give it a try this week—experiment with single-tasking in small ways, and observe how it changes your day. And if you’re ready for more personalized strategies, consider working with a coach to build sustainable habits that help you thrive in medicine.

As an evidence-based coach, I specialize in helping physicians navigate the unique challenges of their careers while fostering sustainable well-being. With over a decade of experience, I’ve worked with physicians and medical departments to reduce burnout and build habits that promote resilience and productivity. If you’re curious about how coaching can support you or your team, I’d love to connect. Learn more about my offerings or reach out for a free consultation. Together, we can create a roadmap for thriving in medicine.