Every Ted X talks about skills, how to build them, which ones land you jobs, and which ones are necessary for success. 

But sometimes, we praise the wrong ones too much. 

And worse, we forget to teach or practice the ones that matter most.

So, let’s ask the big question:

What skill is overrated, and which one deserves way more attention?

The answers might surprise you. Let’s go!

 

Overrated: Multitasking

We hear it constantly: “I’m great at multitasking!” It’s even listed as a skill on CVs and job applications. 

But here’s the truth: multitasking is one of the most overrated skills.

Why? 

Because our brains aren’t built to focus on many things at once. 

According to research from the American Psychological Association, multitasking can reduce productivity by up to 40%. 

That’s because switching between tasks takes extra time and energy.

Think about it: have you ever tried doing homework while watching TV? 

You end up missing both the math problems and the plot. 

It’s not efficient, it’s exhausting.

Instead of doing many things at once, doing one thing well is way more powerful. 

That leads us to the skill that should get more love…

 

Underrated: DeeFocus

Focus is the real superpower.

Sitting, concentrating, and giving something your full attention leads to better results, clearer thinking, and creative ideas.

Whether you’re learning a new subject, working on a business idea, or solving a problem…

Deep focus helps you go deeper, think better, and finish faster.

In today’s world, filled with social media, fast content, and distractions, focus is a skill few people possess. 

But the ones who do? They stand out. 

They become better thinkers, better learners, and better workers.

 

Why We Mistake Busy for Productive

A lot of people equate multitasking with “working hard.” 

They think they’re being productive if they look busy, juggling emails, phone calls, and meetings. 

But that’s not always true.

Real productivity comes from clarity, calm, and concentration.

It comes from knowing what’s important, setting your mind to it, and sticking with it until you achieve it.

Multitasking creates mental noise. Focus creates mental power.

 

How to Build Better Focus

Do you want to improve your focus? Here are a few simple tips that work:

• Turn off all distractions. That means phones, social media, and background noise.

 

• Work in bits. Use the Pomodoro Technique, 25 minutes of work, 5 minutes break.

 

• Set small goals. Focus is easier when you know exactly what you’re trying to do.

 

• Get enough sleep and eat well. Your brain won’t focus if your body is tired.

 

• Practice daily. Like any skill, focus grows with practice, just like learning to ride a bike.

So… Should we stop multitasking completely?

Not exactly. 

Some multitasking can work, like folding laundry while listening to a podcast. 

But single-tasking wins every time when it comes to important work, learning, or decision-making.

The best minds in the world, from writers to scientists to business leaders, often say their success comes from their ability to focus, not their ability to juggle five things at once.

 

Final Thoughts

In a world full of noise, focus is a quiet strength.

So the next time someone brags about being a master multitasker, ask yourself: Are they really doing more, or are they just splitting their attention?

Don’t chase the hype if you want to do your best work, learn faster, and grow stronger.

Drop multitasking. Build your focus.

It’s not just a better skill. It’s a game-changer