Everything is a blur. Everyone needs to talk to you, needs you to do something. You’re up to your nose in work and you don’t even have time to eat. You don’t even have time to think about eating. Sound like a typical feeling for you? Before you start panicking, let’s quickly look at your situation and time management.
Over-committing
It is too easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the world around you. More than once I’ve found myself feeling like I had more opportunities and obligations than I had time for. While it may feel like we are proving that we work hard- it is actually doing more damage than anything.
Those damages include:
- Concentration
- Diet (too much, not enough or everything that’s bad)
- Sleep
- Mood
- Health
Now, how do you get yourself out of that commitment nightmare?
Accept Responsibility
Once you accept responsibility for getting yourself into this situation, you can get the power to get yourself out. It all boils down to you.
Let Go of Perfection
It’s commendable to put everything you have into all that you commit too. But often times it is rarely expected or appreciated. Sometimes good is enough.
Relax and Keep Perspective
When you become overwhelmed with your workload, just stop and take three deep breaths and tell yourself that nothing lasts forever. You will get through this work and this time.
Prioritize and Make Lists
Write down all of your commitments and prioritize them. Often, by just writing them all down, you’ll gain more perspective. But remember, generally those at the top of our list are the biggest. Don’t be afraid to tackle them head on. By doing just the little things, you will keep putting off the big and keep gaining more small tasks.
How to stop over-committing:
- Learn to say no
- Evaluate opportunities and commitments
- Believe that less is more