The author discusses their ability to remain calm in emergencies as a contrast to their usual second-guessing and self-absorption. They argue that in emergencies, what needs to be done is usually obvious, allowing them to focus on one thing and liberating them from ambivalence and stress. The author suggests that the same narrow focus can be applied in daily life by making a simple to-do list and immersing oneself in one task at a time. The point is not to stop multitasking, but to recognize that one can only ever focus on one thing at a time. The goal is to let go of ambivalence and embrace the reality of the present moment.
https://www.oliverburkeman.com/onething