How to Work When Everything Else is at Centrestage!
In this Article
When that to-do list piles up in and outside of work, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Everyone’s work is important except yours right? When everything else is at center stage it’s important to prioritize your tasks so you don’t end up in a stew.
You know that sinking feeling when you wake up knowing you have 101 things to do at work and at home, but not knowing where to begin? You’ve got to start somewhere so instead of letting that feeling get to you, try to stay afloat by incorporating these simple tactics in your daily routine to help you take control.
Control Your Workload Before it Takes Control of You
1. Don’t Rely on Your Memory
You may have a superb memory but sometmes it can let you down. Always prioritize your tasks by keeping a to-do list because you can count on that to help you get through the day. With your hectic schedule of getting everyone ready for school and work in the morning, it may not be possible to make one as soon as you’re up. So when you reach work, take 5 minutes to compose yourself and jot down all that needs to be done. Then divide it into what needs immediate attention and that which can wait. At the end of the day take another 5 minutes to jot down things that need tending to at home and then accomplish them.
2. Stick to a Schedule
At work, it’s best to create a time schedule and stick to it daily. If you’ve got a flood of emails to answer to everyday, set aside a time in the day to do so. Give yourself 24 hours to reply to each response that comes in thereafter and make sure you respond within that interval. Create a calendar list of all upcoming events as seeing everything in one place will foster the ability to prioritize work according to the order of events landing you on top of your game.
3. Ask Yourself, What is More Important?
At work, you’ll find colleagues and superiors dumping you with work till there’s no room to breathe. Deep breathe nonetheless, asking yourself whose work is more important. It’s the first step in learning how to prioritize workload. The work of your reporting authority is always more important, everyone else can wait. So once you’re done with that, move onto the next.
4. Get Rid of Clutter
Why is it important to prioritize? If you leave little things on your table to attend to bigger matters, you’re not going to make much headway. Leaving all the small stuff for later will only clutter your table, which is the sign of a cluttered mind. It reflects a disorganised persona. Get all the little things out of the way. It’ll surely ease the workload and your mind, keeping you free to attend to other important things.
When you find ways to prioritize your time you will be in a much better position to steer your own ship. It’s all about being organised and maintaining a certain discipline at work and at home. Most importantly, learn to be honest with yourself and your capabilities. Don’t take on more than you can handle for that will be your undoing.
