Dear Dr. Mimi: Distressing Deadlines

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Dear Dr. Mimi:
I often feel pressed for time to get all
the work done that my boss gives me. I
am one of those people who prefers to
finish one task before starting another.
However, my boss believes more can be
accomplished if I multitask. I have never
missed a deadline. How do I make my
boss understand my work style?
—Distressed

Dear Distressed:
Everyone works and accomplishes
tasks differently. If multitasking is not for
you, let your boss know. Find out the real
deadlines and suggest that it might be
more effective if you can create your own
schedule so as to best meet the deadlines.
Current studies show that although
multitasking may be effective in some
situations, the quality of the work often
suffers, and the “do-over” time cancels any
perceived time gains. As long as you meet
the deadlines, how you accomplish the
tasks can be left to you.
—Dr. Mimi


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