I’m all for multitasking. I like to do three things at once….it’s the only way I can get my work done, attend to the household, take care of my family, and try to take care of myself. However,  I noticed a bruise on my shoulder the other day.  I thought for a second and realized that I had bumped my arm against a bike in our garage as I was walking out to the car.  Not a big deal, but then I also knew that I could have avoided it.  There was absolutely no need for me to be carrying my work bag, purse, mug of coffee, exercise bag, AND lunch at the same time.  Why not take two trips?  Because I didn’t want to waste time.  I probably gained 5 seconds but I also gained a bruise.

In a matter of one week, three friends got physically injured because they were trying to go too fast and “get things done.” One friend slipped and hurt her knees while trying to carry a too heavy laundry basket while running out to check the oven. Another friend scratched her cornea with a mascara brush because she was late for a business meeting and putting on her make up too fast.  Finally, my last friend got a concussion (A concussion!) when she was picking up clothes from off the floor to make sure the bathroom was neat for her daughter’s playdate.  She hit her head against the lip of the sink.

Any of those injuries could have happened to me.  It was a reminder to slow down.  Take my time. Do one thing at once.  As a woman, this can be particularly difficult but it is an important reminder. Be mindful.

 

Rachna Varia, PhD