This afternoon I was trying to compose an email to a group of friends. It did not need to be long, but I wanted it to be just right, and therefore, I was considering my words very carefully. Â All the while my kids were interrupting my train of thought by asking me questions and pushing me to hurry up so we could go play with their cousins.
I was getting so frustrated, and finally I thought, “What makes these kids think I can multitask like this?!” Hmmm. Let’s see. That would be my fault. How often do I multitask in their presence: while I’m doing school with multiple children, checking email while listening to them ramble, directing one of them while talking on the phone.  Good grief! I’ve taught them that I can do multiple things at once, so how can I blame them for interrupting a task I’m involved in?Â
It’s humbling when you realize you are responsible for the building up of a negative habit in your children – through your own negative habit. Â However, the first step in fixing a problem is usually to at least acknowledging the problem exists, and I am determined that it must STOP!
For the most part I just have to stop multitasking. I have to give my full attention to one thing, one child, one phone call, one email. I also must teach my children to respect my desire to focus on one thing. They know not to interrupt a conversation where two people are face to face, but now it seems I need to set some boundaries in other areas as well.Â
Might they also feel more valued when it’s their turn to get my full attention? I think so. This is important I think, so I’m going to give it my best effort. Old dog, here comes a new trick…
