Why do we always overwhelmed at work and what to do

Sometimes we skip lunch and work non-stop, but still do not have time to complete all tasks. Use these tips to sort out with the chores and no longer fall into such a situation.

What is the reason

Simply bad we determine how much time we will go to some business. Usually we greatly overestimate their abilitiesExploring the «Planning Fallacy». In addition, we like to say "yes." By agreeing to follow someone else's plan, we create or strengthen communications with that person.

Rewind time back and say "no" instead of "yes" will not work. How could cope with the backlog of cases?

What to do

1. Separate the wheat from the chaff

Highlight the most urgent task. Think about what really needs to be done today on your list, and what can be postponed?

Our brain has a tendency to confuse this important work and minor administrative tasks like email parsing. Weed out the not so urgent matters, you can all the attention and energy to devote to the main.

2. Delegate some tasks

Perhaps you have a direct subordinate, who was able to fulfill one of your tasks? Or try to ask for help a colleague, promising to help him in this situation in the future. Importantly, do not forget to give all the information necessary to perform the work.

If you work alone, think about whether it is possible to somehow automate your business. Usually it is best suited for automation of repetitive tasks, which are time-consuming. For example, you can automatically save files of letters and applications to Google Drive or to schedule posts in social networks.

3. Transfer deadline

Of course, this is exactly what you wanted to avoid. But, when you minimize your list and have exhausted all the possibilities, it is time to admit that some terms will have to move, and someone will have to take. The main thing - to do so as soon as possible.

Much more professional to ask to postpone until he came, not after.

When you write a letter to a colleague with the news, remember two things. Firstly, do not apologize too much time. Of course, you are uncomfortable to admit defeat, but again and again apologizing, you will feel even more guilty. No benefit from it is not. So what is expressed directly and concisely.

Second, be sure to name the new date by which you definitely do the job. Once ask for a postponement is possible. But repeated requests to indicate that you do not cope with their responsibilities.

How not to be in this situation again,

To get started, try to keep track of how much time you spent on each case. So you get rid of the habit to assess your abilities are too optimistic and will be able to count sober time.

If you are used to score a calendar of various events such as training seminars and networking, create a new calendar for the "Optional" and make it all that you do not have to attend. In those days, when you're torn apart, sort things weed out all optional.