With the holidays just around the corner, the next few weeks are crunch time. I find when I am extremely busy, I am unproductive. What is the best way to manage all your tasks without getting overwhelmed?
Rosie L. emailed us at expert@sweetspot.ca, and stress counsellor Natalie Shay, answered;
Most people take on too much. Break it down! By getting the task down on paper and out of your head it will help you reduce the stress and work more efficiently. Create two types of lists; one that focuses on monthly tasks and the other on daily tasks. Assign a time frame beside each specific task.
The Daily Tasks should be written in order of importance. The ability to cross a task off the list is a great feeling of accomplishment. Schedule at least one hour per day for un-budgeted tasks, because they do tend to come up. If you are a manager, be more realistic with this timeframe and keep track over one week how long your team needs you on average. This way you can establish a daily time where your team can come to you with questions or concerns.
It could also be useful to implement a policy whereby the door is closed in your office so that you can work uninterrupted. With each task it is important to make sure your day-to-day tasks are achievable and you allow enough time to accomplish each. It is better to over estimate your time then under estimate it. This way, if you are done your tasks early you can have some time for yourself which is another important part of the equation to keep yourself productive.
Natalie Shay is a National Stress Management Coach and Career Counsellor. She has experience working with hundreds of large Canadian Organizations. Natalie has helped her clients improve their lives and learn how to be happy in their career by learning and implementing new stress coping skills. For more information feel free to contact her at natalieshay@gmail.com.
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