We might think we can multi-task – do many things or multiple things at the same time. This is not true. We can only focus on one thing at a time. We may think we are accomplishing many things simultaneously, but we are constantly shifting our focus from one to task to another (sometimes within microseconds). This can make it seem like we are concentrating on more than one task at a time. But this constant shifting lowers our capabilities on all tasks involved. This is also very tiring mentally and produces great stress (the human response to change). For important  tasks, one should try to devote their continued attention to the single task at hand. This is where we are most productive and capable, most effective and efficient.

 
HOW SMART IS YOUR RIGHT FOOT?

There are some things that the brain cannot handle well.   This will only take a few seconds. Try it and be surprised.

This will boggle your mind and you will keep trying over and over again to see if you can outsmart your foot, but you cannot.  It is pre-programmed into your brain!

1. While in a sitting position on a chair, lift your right foot off the floor and make clockwise circles with it.

2. Now, while doing this, draw the number ‘6’ in the air with your right hand.  Your foot will change direction and there is nothing you can do about it!

 
Other Tests and Exercises

Many things seem difficult or even impossible to do, but with practice we can change what we might consider our normal or regular state of inability. Seemingly simple yet complex tasks are some of the best examples.

1. Move each eye separately

2. Pat your head while rubbing your stomach in a circle

3. Lifting the ‘pointed to’ finger with hands interlock, twisted and inverted

4. Playing the piano or anything where your hands are each doing something different.  This is especially so when it is required that we do additional things as well (ex. use our feet, sing or talk, etc.)