Q: Eek! What can I do? It’s only January, I am swamped and the work keeps coming
A: Sometimes I feel swamped. Yes, me and when that happens I have a vivid image: work seems to come at me like a giant snowball—not the pristine white “Frosty the Snowman” ball – my giant snowball rolls at (and over) me with rocks, twigs and miscellaneous debris. The aftermath—I become entangled in the detritus. Not a pleasant experience.
Avoid the common mistake of making a check list of all the things that you have to do—you are just making another snowball. As a result, my goal is to be quick and spot the snowball coming my way and then be agile and step out its path. Here are a few questions to consider:
- What is the one thing that you can complete now and be left with a sense of accomplishment?
- Do you need to revise your plan?
- Have you clarified expectations? Timeframes? Remember everything is not “due tomorrow”
- Remember to connect the dots—Who do you hand your work to and how will it be used? When?
- Do you “like” your job? Are you enjoying what you are doing?
- Are you and your boss aligned regarding your goals for 2014 performance?
Be honest: Do you have too much on your plate? If yes, now is the time to discuss with your manager. Remember that work will continue to come at you and it is up to you to manage the pace, delegate and/or clarify expectations. If it looks like a snowball of debris, grab a twig not a rock. Really? Find the humor in your situation — it will clear the path to a unique solution.
Finally, need a laugh? See below: 