Last week I attempted to not read my email while I was on the phone during my Single Tasking Experiment. The ONLY way I could do this was by turning away from the computer or shutting the laptop. If it was open, I was drawn to it like a moth to the light bulb on our porch. So, I did that. I walked away and focused on the conversation at hand. Better conversations, real listening, and complete focus. The change was immediate and I could feel my brain syncing with the task at hand.
Single Tasking Experiment - Week 2 - Put Down the Device
In addition to the no email while talking on the phone rule, I will attempt to put down the device during one on one encounters. This is going to be difficult. I am guilty of looking at my phone during meetings, when I am bored, while watching TV with my husband, etc. I realize, though, that by not paying true attention to the people in front of me I am being rude, not making personal connections and, possibly, damaging relationships.
"Focusing on more than one thing decreases your productivity by 40% and lowers your IQ by 10 points, according to Harvard Business Review. And it almost goes without saying how dangerous it is to multitask while driving." Matt Petrinzeo of Mashable
The Rules: Set down the device during one on one encounters.
I'll keep you posted mid week. This is, by the way, in addition to the no email during phone conversations rule. We are ADDING to the Single Tasking Experiment each week, not trying one skill and letting it drop. What do they say? 21 days makes a habit? Something like that; let's hope that is true.
Photo courtesy of People Against Distracted Driving