My Superpower SAVES me!

There was a time when I prided myself on being a multitasking queen. I could juggle a million things at once—answering emails while stirring a pot of soup, mentally planning my day while rushing through dinner prep. But, if I’m honest, I often ended up feeling frazzled, frustrated, and, worst of all, unfulfilled. These days, I’ve discovered the magic of single-tasking, and let me tell you, it’s been life-changing—especially when it comes to making dinner.

If you’re anything like me, your day is a whirlwind of responsibilities, and by the time dinner rolls around, your mind is in a thousand different places. It’s no wonder cooking can feel overwhelming. But here’s the thing: when you focus on one thing at a time, not only does the chaos subside, but the joy of cooking reappears.

Why Single-Tasking Matters

Multitasking doesn’t just make us less productive; it drains our energy and leaves us feeling ragged. Studies show that trying to do multiple things at once—whether it’s driving while on your phone or cooking while scrolling social media—can have the same effect on your brain as being drunk. That scattered feeling? It’s real, and it’s robbing you of the chance to be present in the moment.

Harvard research even found that people are happier when they’re focused on a single task. Living in the moment and immersing yourself in what you’re doing right now brings a sense of fulfillment and calm. Cooking can become more than just another chore; it can be a source of peace and creativity—if we allow it to be.

The Recipe for Focused Cooking

1. Plan Ahead: Before you even start your day, make sure you’ve set yourself up for success. Lay out ingredients, prep what you can, and have a clear plan for dinner. Knowing everything is ready and waiting for you means less stress when you walk through the door.

2. Create a Cooking Zone: When it’s time to cook, eliminate distractions. Put your phone on silent, turn off the TV, and make this time sacred. Focus on the rhythm of chopping vegetables, the aroma of spices, and the sizzle of food in the pan. Let cooking be your moment of mindfulness.

3. Batch Tasks: Use the concept of cluster tasking. For example, chop all your vegetables at once, measure out your spices in one go, and group similar steps together. This saves mental energy and keeps the process flowing smoothly.

4. Leave Buffers: Don’t pack your schedule so tightly that you’re rushing to make dinner. Give yourself a little wiggle room. Those extra 10 minutes can be the difference between a peaceful evening and a stressed-out scramble.

The Joy of Cooking With Focus

When you embrace single-tasking in the kitchen, dinner can go from a dreaded task to a cherished ritual. You’ll find that meals come together faster and with less effort because you’re fully present. In most cases, you can have a delicious dinner ready in 30 minutes when you’re focused.

And here’s the kicker: single-tasking doesn’t just make cooking easier; it makes it more enjoyable. You’ll start to savor the process, noticing the little things—the vibrant colors of fresh veggies, the way garlic smells as it sautés, the satisfaction of creating something nourishing for yourself and your family.

I’ve been where you are, feeling like there’s never enough time and everything’s a blur. But I promise, if you take a breath and focus on one thing at a time, you’ll not only get dinner done—you’ll find joy in the journey. Here’s to cooking with intention and living a flavorful life, one focused moment at a time.