The Power of Focus

Why Multitasking Isn’t as Effective as You Think

In today’s fast-paced world, multitasking is often seen as a badge of honour. The ability to juggle emails, text messages, meetings, and family responsibilities all at once can make us feel productive — but is it really making us more effective?

The truth is, that multitasking isn’t helping us the way we think it is. In fact, it often does more harm than good. Let’s unpack why.

1. Divided Attention Means Divided Results

Our brains were designed to focus on one thing at a time. When we try to split our attention between multiple tasks, the quality of our work inevitably suffers. Each task only gets a fraction of our focus, leading to shallow, incomplete, or careless results.

James 1:8 says, “A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways.”When our minds are pulled in too many directions, it affects our stability, decision-making, and peace.

2. More Mistakes, Less Progress

Studies consistently show that multitasking increases the likelihood of errors. Every time we switch from one task to another, our brain takes time to adjust, which slows us down and makes us more prone to mistakes. What feels like efficiency is actually wasted time and mental energy.

3. It’s Exhausting

Multitasking isn't just mentally inefficient — it’s physically draining. Trying to keep multiple plates spinning leads to increased stress and cognitive fatigue. We weren’t meant to be everywhere, doing everything, all at once.

Jesus modeled intentional, focused living. He was never in a hurry and never scattered in His attention. He knew when to retreat, when to speak, and when to act.

4. Multitasking Blocks Deep, Meaningful Work

When we’re multitasking, we rarely reach the depth needed for creative breakthroughs, insightful reflection, or spiritual clarity. Important things — like prayer, Bible study, meaningful conversations, or problem-solving — require undivided attention.

Philippians 4:8 reminds us, “Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right… think about such things.” This type of intentional, focused thinking doesn’t happen when we’re juggling distractions.

The Power of Focus

Nehemiah offers a great biblical example of focused leadership. While rebuilding Jerusalem’s wall, his enemies tried to distract him with meetings, rumors, and threats (Nehemiah 6). But Nehemiah famously responded:“I am doing a great work and I cannot come down.” (Nehemiah 6:3)

He recognized the value of focus and refused to be pulled away from his God-given assignment.

Takeaway

You don't have to multitask to be effective. In fact, you’ll likely accomplish more — and do it better — when you slow down and give your full attention to one thing at a time.

Practical tip:

• Make a to-do list and tackle one task before moving to the next.

• Silence notifications during prayer or reading.

• Set aside time for focused, uninterrupted work.

Let’s be people who choose purpose over busyness and focus over frenzy. There’s power in doing one thing well.