Task batching is one productivity hack that’s stood the test of time and with good reason. It’s been proven to work for anyone; it increases focus and minimises distractions. And when you do those things, you’re guaranteed to save yourself time and increase efficiency.

But if you’re new to task batching, you may be wondering what it is and how it works as well as it does. So if you’re looking for answers, keep reading and find out why it’s the one productivity hack you must add to your working day!

What is task batching?

Task batching is a productivity strategy where you group similar activities so that you can complete them in one time slot. This helps cut down on switching between tools and systems, as our brain takes time and effort to switch between tasks and systems.

When you batch similar tasks together, you’re enabling your brain to focus on each task rather than trying to multitask your way through your to-do list. When you switch tasks, your brain sees this in the same way as being distracted – and it can take up to 23 minutes to focus back on the task at hand.

 Batching tasks enables you to work to your strengths and natural rhythms and create a better routine that works for you. You can schedule tasks based on your energy levels and when you’re most able to complete that type of task. So, rather than checking your emails first thing in the morning ( when you’re at your most productive!), you’re working on that big project in the morning and checking emails mid-morning instead.

Task batching helps save time

It’s often easy to procrastinate on tasks you don’t want to do. When you batch tasks together, you’re building momentum with each task you complete, which motivates you to continue with the other similar tasks you have. It’s also a good idea to work on the biggest task on your list first, as you create a sense of urgency and feel more accomplished once it’s completed.

Batching tasks helps improve focus 

When you’re focusing on one task at a time, you can focus more intensely on it. It’s the same when you batch tasks; you’re grouping like tasks together. This helps you filter out distractions and focus more on the task itself.

Ease overwhelm with task batching

Another great benefit of task batching is it decreases overwhelm. Each time you’re sidetracked or interrupted during a task, your levels of stress and frustration increase. This is because your cortisol levels increase as your brain works harder to deal with these switches in concentration.

When you’re able to minimise distractions and interruptions, you can focus more deeply. This enables you to keep moving forward and see the tangible results you’re gaining, which motivates you to keep going. You’re also going to feel less tired and drained as you’re keeping those cortisol levels steadier.

When it comes to productivity hacks, there are many different options you can use. But task batching is one of those methods that works for anyone, no matter what. Why? Because it’s been proven that if you can minimise distractions and keep your focus on one task at a time, you’re going to save time and increase efficiency. So if you’re looking to be more productive at work, give it a go and start reaping the rewards for yourself!

And if you’re looking for even more ways to save time and increase efficiency, why not get in touch? Working with a VA can help take some of those tasks off your to-do list altogether, freeing you to focus on those that only you can do or that you love doing the most. So book a discovery call and let’s discuss solutions that best suit your needs – you’ll find contact information here.