I need to be reminded of this almost every day.

On my way to get one thing accomplished, I will see something else that needs to get done and figure, “while I’m at it…” Add a few more items to the list and suddenly the mind feels overwhelmed.

This is true for many of us as anything requiring multiple cognitive demands will shut you down and cause grief.

Sometimes, we can’t avoid having to handle multiple things at the same time – just ask a new parent. The trick is to manipulate yourself into thinking you’re only focusing on one task.

As much as possible, finish what you’re doing and then move on to the next thing. If you keep telling your brain you’re only doing one thing at a time, without thinking about the other items on your list, you will get a significant amount done.