Multitasking

The Art of Multitasking (Without Going Crazy)

Whether you’re a student, an employee, a business owner, or just someone who likes crossing things off a list, you KNOW multitasking is a necessity. So, how do you master the multitasking without going crazy?

Create a to-do list.

Physically write down the tasks, or type them up digitally. I like to create a physical to-do list on a sticky note at my full-time job. I’ll place the to-do list on my computer, and then I know what I’ve got ahead of me for the day.

 

Multitasking To-Do List

 

However, you might find that a digital to-do list works better for you. Create a list on your phone, your computer, or wherever you might find the list to most helpful. I recommend creating a list on a Notes app. You can access this at any time, even if you’re offline. That helps eliminate distractions. You may also add timer reminders, so if you need to complete a report by 1 p.m., setup a reminder an hour before that you need to email the report to your boss.

Prioritize your to-do list.

Once you create your to-do list, choose which tasks are most important to complete. You don’t have to recreate the list if that’s an additional step – just place numbers, stars, or highlight the information to help you track the most important items.

Prioritizing your list will depend on a lot of different factors: due date, task length, how long it will take you to complete the task, how many people are involved, and more.

Organize your tasks based upon what works best for you. Only you will know what works best to keep your process working efficiently.

Download helpful apps.

Again, if you prefer to work digitally, then use a helpful app to keep your multitasking in check.

Asana

Asana works really well as a digital task list. I use Asana for all of my digital tasks, such as submitting online articles, editing photos, and other business reminders.

They offer an app version and a desktop version, so you can access your Asana account from anywhere. You can also set due dates for your tasks. You’ll keep track of the due date, but you may opt for email reminders to complete the tasks.

 

Asana Task List, Organization
Asana updated their interface. When you complete a task (check it off your digital list), the line highlights rainbow colors and a little bird (or unicorn) appears in the bottom left corner of the screen.

 

Sticky Notes

Sticky Notes is a Microsoft app that can be accessed on desktop, Android, and iOS devices. You can create a digital sticky note, choose a fun color, save the note, and set a reminder for later.

 

Multitasking with Digital Sticky Notes

 

AND CO

If you send invoices, proposals, and contracts to clients, AND CO simplifies this and cuts your time in half. I started out by creating my invoices in Excel (nothing wrong with that) and using online contract templates before I started using AND CO. It’s absolutely free – they offer an app and a desktop version.

I prefer the desktop version because it’s easier to work and read everything on a larger screen. AND CO offers free digital invoices, proposals, and contracts. Clients can even pay online with a handy “Pay Now” button that connects to your PayPal, Stripe, and other payment accounts.

 

AND CO Free Invoicing
An example of the AND CO invoice setup.

 

You may create proposals and contracts from AND CO templates, but you may download and tailor them according to your needs. I haven’t had to change anything in their contracts yet. It’s a template that you fill in with the job, rate (hourly, flat rate, project-based…), contact email address and other information. It’s easy to enter the information, and you can even add protections for nonpayment and other concerns.

AND CO’s support team is also very quick in responding via chat and email. This is a huge time-saver!

If multitasking is too much, then take a break.

It’s OK if you feel that multitasking just isn’t for you. Take a break from all the apps and the lists. Sit down and create a plan that works best for you.

What are some multitasking tips that work for you?

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