Sound familiar? Well here are seven ways to help you cope:
1. PRIORITISE MAN!
Probably the single most important thing you can do help cope with the weight of so much to do. When you get in to work each day, revise your to-do list and identify what the most important tasks are that require urgent attention. Once that is sorted, make sure that you tackle them first and don’t get side-tracked by less important issues – you can become much more effective by planning your work and then working to your plan.
2. MANAGER VALIDATION
Once you’ve identified what your priorities are, you need to make sure your manager agrees. Too often people spend time working on things that aren’t considered a priority by the rest of the business. Have regular chats with your manager to discuss your workload and key objectives and most importantly, get them to agree. Once you’ve both agreed on the most important tasks, you can discuss some of the less important priorities which could slow you down. Try and come up with some solutions together, such as delegating or transferring some work to others or not attending meetings.
3. THE EARLY BIRD LEAVES ON TIME
Where possible, try to arrive at work early to avoid others and their distractions. You will be fresh and energised and it’s a great time to tackle your top priorities. You will probably achieve more in one hour first thing in the morning, than you will in two to three later in the day. Unless absolutely necessary, leave work on time. While work is important, your home life is more so – spend time with your family and friends and get a good night’s rest.
4. SAY NO TO WORK!
Well not entirely but you can say no to what are called “low-value” tasks. So many professionals invariably lose time on trivial issues, so stop going to meetings where nothing much happens or where you add little value; you can always get a summary of it later. Unsubscribe from emails which don’t provide value and most importantly, don’t accept more work unless you know it is important and worthwhile. While it can seem difficult, it’s important to be able to challenge people about the need of what it is they’re asking for. You can say no to tasks that will prevent you from getting your more important work completed. Be diplomatic but firm and let them know that you won’t be able do what they want as you have other things that are of higher priority. Your time is valuable and your co-workers should know this.
5. MAKE YOUR MIND A MINI TIDY TOWN
These days, we are more connected to each other than ever before. Clear your head from distraction by switching off your mobile and shutting down your email for an hour. Avoid multi-tasking and concentrate on completing one critical task – the sense of accomplishment will energise you for the rest of the day.
6. HOLIDAY – CELEBRATE
Your job is important and your role is critical to the business. We get that. But while it seems like your team won’t be able to manage without you – rest assured that they can and will. Make sure you take holidays when you have them. Force yourself if you have to. It will refresh you and it might make the people at work appreciate you that little bit more.
7. MOVIN’ ON UP
While this last point seems like another way to use a song lyric it’s actually an important reminder to all of us. Sometimes the best way to get out of the rut is to get promoted or get another job. Networking with people higher up at work and in other parts of the industry is a great way to raise your profile. Go to conferences and industry seminars and if it looks like there is no real possibility of career advancement in your current job then look seriously at opportunities outside.
