so much to do . so little time

{via}

.multitasking.
Main Entry: mul·ti·task·ing
Pronunciation: \-ˌtas-kiŋ\

Function: noun

Usage: often attributive

Date: 1966



1 : the concurrent performance of several jobs by a computer
2 : the performance of multiple tasks at one time
3 : jen jen


— mul·ti·task \-ˌtask\ intransitive verb
— mul·ti·task·er \-ˌtas-kər\ noun


i never really thought about the extent to which i "multitask." that was until i happened upon this hilarious article in 'real simple' about "unitasking."  the author tried to live for 10 days {i think} only doing 1 single act at a time.  if he was talking to his wife he would only be speaking to his wife...not buttering his toast, not walking to pick up his keys, not petting the dog...just the one activity.  he tried to unitask his thoughts as well.  if he was standing in a line at starbucks he wouldn't also be planning the best route to an appointment, texting and having a imaginary confrontation with the rude lady in front of him.  he would solely be thinking about the one activity at hand.  the very witty gentleman described his struggle & progress in detail; it was so interesting to me.


now i know that some boys people can't chew gum and walk at the same time, but for most of us...we're multitasking maniacs. it's so ingrained in us that we have to work incredibly hard just to focus on one task at a time.  


so down to the nitty-gritty.  is multitasking negative?  is there anything wrong with getting things done?  doesn't that just make us productive?  efficient?  


i think the issue is two fold.  let's put this in perspective.


sometimes multitasking has little to no consequence.  you can do all the things you need to, you accomplish what you need, nothing is compromised and all is complete in an appropriate amount of time.  maybe multitasking even leaves you with a greater amount of time to do meaningful or fun things.  treat.


in other situations multitasking can also lead to a great deal of good.  i feel like it is beneficial to work eternal aspects into the mundane, into the daily grind.  i think that it is important, even vital, to be in prayer throughout my work day.  vital to meditate on scripture while i take care of my duties & responsibilities.  this type of multitasking brings focus and Life into my day.  multitasking that has impact.


however, trying to utilize those same "tasks" in opposite order can be detrimental.  what if i'm trying to work my daily activities into my things i hold dear.  what if i'm so consumed with getting things done that i sacrifice my opportunities to spend quality time with the Lord or forgo real conversations and relationships in order to do chores?  while we know that we can talk to a friend and shop at the grocery at the same time, both activities will suffer - your attention is split.  unfortunately, one of those activities actually matters.  you're friend is going through a really tough time and needs your support, you care, but you're also calculating 20% off your favorite expensive cereal.  


do you know what i mean?  multitasking has the capacity to be inconsequential, advantageous, or even rotten & harmful - isn't that crazy? how important is it for us to recognize the practices that lead to fruit as well as the acts that damage our ability to be present in different situations? busyness can bind us, tire us, steal our joy and distort our priorities.  i know that busyness is one of my greatest struggles.  i hope to be aware of my thoughts & actions to take captive the dangerous habits i've created as well as invest in the type of multitasking that can bring growth. 

i write this as i eat, drink, type and talk on the phone.  oh geesh.