15 | How to Stop Multitasking: 5 Simple Habits to Reclaim Focus in a Distracted World

You’re doing a lot. Texting back a friend, helping with homework, checking your inbox, and reheating dinner… again.

While you’re juggling it all, something inside feels off. You’re constantly busy but never caught up. Mentally noisy, emotionally tired, and spiritually distant.

It’s time to stop multitasking and begin living with intention again.

Why Multitasking Doesn’t Work

Multitasking might feel productive. However, research and real life say otherwise.

Each time you switch from one task to another, your brain loses clarity and energy. Instead of staying focused, you end up scattered. Instead of doing more, you end up remembering less and feeling drained.

This isn’t just about efficiency. It’s about integrity. Peace. Presence. Purpose.

Your soul wasn’t made to run on notifications.

What God’s Word Says About Focus

God’s Word confirms what neuroscience is now proving:

“Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you.” (Proverbs 4:25)

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” (Colossians 3:23)

You were made to live – and lead – with focused intention. When you stop multitasking, you’re not just shifting a habit. You’re reclaiming the ability to be fully present with God, your people, and the task in front of you.

5 Simple, Practical Habits to Help You Reset

1. Create Friction Between You and Your Distractions

Move your phone or device out of reach. Make it at least 7 seconds away.

That short pause gives your brain time to resist the default. Instead, you can choose presence.

2. Time-Block Your Focus

Try the Pomodoro Method. Work for 25 minutes of focused time. Then take a 5-minute break.

These intentional blocks help your brain stay alert. They also reduce the burnout that comes from constantly shifting attention.

3. Park Your Thoughts

Keep a notebook or digital list nearby. Use it for stray thoughts that pop up mid-task.

Write them down, release them, and return to the moment. Your brain can rest, knowing you won’t forget.

4. Use Cues to Transition Well

Before moving to a new task, pause. Take three deep breaths. Say a quick prayer.

These simple cues help your mind reset. You won’t drag stress or mental residue into the next thing.

5. Start with What Matters Most

Begin your day with your “big rock.” Prioritize the task, relationship, or quiet moment that matters most. Do this before the noise of the world begins.

Seek God first. Let Him order your steps.

The Transformation You’ll Experience

As you build these habits, something shifts.

You’ll think more clearly. Show up more fully. Lead with more integrity. Most importantly, you’ll feel a peace that multitasking could never give you.

Jesus reminds us in Matthew 6:33 to “Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

When we align our attention with His priorities, we begin to experience clarity, energy, and joy, right where we are.

Your Next Step

So today, take one step. Just one.

Stop multitasking. Choose a single task. Put the distractions aside. Be all in.

That’s where the transformation begins.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does it take to stop multitasking? A: Most people see improvements within 2-3 weeks of consistent practice. Start with one habit and build from there.

Q: What if my job requires multitasking? A: Focus on task-switching with intention rather than reactive multitasking. Use the transition cues to reset between tasks.

Q: Can I still listen to music while working? A: Instrumental music can actually help focus for some people. Avoid music with lyrics as it competes for your brain’s language processing.

Free Resources to Help You Get Started

Digital Wellness Tools

• Screen Time Personality Quiz – Discover your digital distraction patterns and get a personalized 3-Day Digital Peace Plan
• Free Truth-Filled Wallpapers – Phone and desktop backgrounds designed to help you pause and refocus
• Guide to Grayscale – Step-by-step instructions to make your phone less distracting. Want to hear how Grayscale transformed my phone habits? Check out Episode 5 of the Overcome Digital Distraction Podcast.

Connect With Julianne

• Website: julianneaugust.com
• Email: hello@julianneaugust.com
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• Facebook: Julianne August
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