Multitasking: Apparently, the Missing Male Skillset

I have to admit, I suck at it too. Actually, I can do it, but have noticed how anxious I feel after a multi-tasking session.

I read a blurb in the October issue of Yoga Journal about a study done at the University of California focusing on the present moment and had an 'a-ha' moment. While the study delves into people rehashing their past, or worrying about the future, I realized how often I'm not in the present.

While I 'watch' tv, I also pay bills, read a book, play an online game or surf the Internet. I end up missing a lot of nuances of the show. At work, it is worse. I'll be responding to an email when I get the pop-up screen that another has arrived in my inbox. Of course I have to go look at it. Depending upon the email, I'll start to respond and the cycle just starts over with another email popping up in my inbox. By the end of the day, I'm finishing up about 10 half-attempts at email responses, and closing out another 20 emails.

Whether for fun or work, I take it upon myself to try to be there for everyone the moment they need me. Unfortunately, I'm always left feeling a bit anxious.

I know some people are great multi-taskers. I'm learning I'm not and am actually okay with that. After reading the magazine blurb, I realized I need to just focus on one thing at a time. Whether I'm watching tv, reading or responding to emails at work, I'm going to be in the now. I'd rather enjoy, or focus, on what I'm doing before moving on. I've only starting adopting this attitude. However, I've noticed I'm not anxious or uneasy and feel as if I've focused 100% on a situation.

Now.....to address the title of this blog.....I often hear how men have a weakness for not being able to multi-task and am now wondering if they choose not to because they've known all along how more efficient and calm you can be when you don't.

New Year, New Outlook.

I've been gone from the blogging world for quite some time. The trials and tribulations of Storm Sandy finally came to an end, but I was in desperate need of a new computer. My laptop, while almost viable, takes forever to run. However, I've had it since 2005, so a 8 year run is a good deal.

Yesterday was my birthday and while most make resolutions on New Year's Day, I make mine on my birthday. I don't make resolutions that often lead to beating one self up for not being able to do it, but I try to reflect and create resolutions I think will make my life richer or easier. This year I only have one. Take a chance.

I don't want the fear of failing the reason to shy away from anything. Whether I want to eat better, exercise, learn to calm down or just forgive myself for some reason I've made up in my head, I just going to continue to try at goals and also accept myself if I fail. Every day, meal, hour, etc. gives me the opportunity to pursue what I want. Instead of harping on what I didn't do 10 minutes ago, I'm going to look ahead and try my best at the next opportunity.

I guess you'd call it a gift of self preservation and self love.

What resolutions have you set for yourself to enrich you as a person?