If you think you’re great at multitasking, I’ve got news for you. This might sting a little, but trust me—you’ll thank me in the long run.
The Hard Truth About Multitasking
Here’s the reality: Your brain physically cannot do two things at once. It rapid-cycles back and forth, giving you the illusion of multitasking, but in truth, it’s just switching gears constantly—and that comes at a cost.
That’s not my opinion. That’s science, baby.
And it gets worse.
Multitasking Literally Makes You Stupid
One study showed that so-called “multitasking” caused a 15-point drop in IQ, lowering participant scores to the equivalent of an 8-year-old child.
Think about that the next time you’re juggling emails, charting, and a conversation with a patient all at once.
I’ve worked with thousands of physicians, and I’ve seen firsthand how the multitasking myth wrecks efficiency, focus, and even the joy in your workday. Many finish their shifts completely drained, still behind on notes, and wondering where the time went.
The Pearl Necklace Technique: A Simple Fix
Here’s a technique I teach that changes everything: The Pearl Necklace Technique.
It’s embarrassingly simple:
- Think of each task as a pearl.
- String them together, one at a time, with specific breaks in between.
- No overlap. No switching. Just one beautiful pearl at a time.
By focusing on one task at a time, you’ll get it done right the first time—saving energy, increasing efficiency, and even allowing you to enjoy your patients more.
I’ve put together a step-by-step guide to help you implement this technique today. [Check it out here.]
Give It a Try—Your Brain Will Thank You
Try this technique for just one day and you’ll feel the difference immediately. Your brain (and your patients) will thank you.
Talk soon,
Dike “Your Brain is a Single-Core Processor” Drummond, MD