5 Signs Multitasking is Sabotaging Your Productivity

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By Shelly Leroux · Apr 14, 2025

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice.

5 Signs Multitasking is Sabotaging Your Productivity

Hey there, fellow side hustler!

In today's world you’re not just juggling textbooks or that 9-to-5 are you? You’re also building a brand, launching an Etsy shop, or maybe even trying to become the next TikTok sensation and still remembering to feed your houseplant. In this whirlwind of ambition, we often tell ourselves, "I’m a master multitasker!" But what if I told you, that glorious badge of honor might actually be a Trojan horse, sneaking into your productivity castle and wreaking havoc?

Yep, multitasking. It sounds so efficient, doesn't it? Like you're some kind of productivity ninja, slicing through tasks with the speed of a thousand suns. But here’s the thing: our brains aren’t wired for it. They’re more like those old dial-up modems – slow, clunky, and prone to throwing a fit when overloaded.

So, how do you know if your multitasking habit is secretly sabotaging your side hustle dreams? Let’s dive into the five telltale signs.

1. The “Half-Done” Symphony

Ever start a project, get halfway through, then get distracted by an email, a text, or that irresistible urge to scroll through Instagram? You end up with a symphony of half-finished tasks, each one screaming for your attention. It’s like trying to conduct an orchestra where everyone’s playing a different tune at the same time – chaotic and utterly unproductive. Instead, try monotasking. Focus on one task until it's complete. You'll be surprised how much faster and better you are when you're not constantly switching gears.

2. The “Brain Fog” Phenomenon

Ever feel like your brain is a cloudy mess by midday? That’s the “context switching” effect. Every time you jump between tasks, your brain has to reboot, costing you precious time and mental energy. This leads to a foggy, sluggish feeling, making it harder to focus and produce quality work. Monotasking allows your brain to settle into a groove, maximizing focus and minimizing that brain drain.

3. The “Error Explosion”

When you’re constantly switching between tasks, the chances of making mistakes skyrocket. A typo here, a missed deadline there, suddenly you’re spending more time fixing errors than actually doing the work. This is especially true when you are working on something that requires a lot of focus, like coding or editing. Avoid the "error explosion" by focusing on one task at a time.

4. The “Creative Block” Monster

Creativity thrives in focused environments. When you’re constantly interrupted, your creative flow gets choked. You might find yourself staring at a blank screen, unable to come up with fresh ideas or solutions. Monotasking allows you to immerse yourself in a task, unlocking your creative potential and allowing those brilliant ideas to surface.

5. The “Stress Spiral”

Juggling multiple tasks leads to a constant state of overwhelm. You’re always worried about forgetting something or falling behind, which creates a spiral of stress. And let’s be honest, stress is the ultimate productivity killer. Monotasking, on the other hand, reduces stress by allowing you to focus on one thing at a time, creating a sense of calm and control.

So, how do we break free from the multitasking trap? Start small. Schedule dedicated blocks of time for specific tasks. Close those distracting tabs, silence those notifications, and give your full attention to the task at hand. You’ll be amazed at how much you can accomplish when you’re not constantly switching gears.

Remember, your side hustle deserves your undivided attention. By embracing monotasking, you’ll not only boost your productivity but also create a more focused, fulfilling, and less stressful work experience. So, ditch the multitasking myth, embrace the power of focus, and watch your side hustle soar!