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31 July 2024

How to Conquer Your Workload

Every business experiences its ups and downs, with periods where the workload spikes and feels never-ending. Typically, during busy periods, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by a mountain of customer demands, emails, and fires to put out…sound familiar?

If so, you’re not alone. 

Many business owners and professionals encounter this ebb and flow. But before you reach for that emergency chocolate stash (or [enter your guilty pleasure here]), here are some practical tips to help you through the storm (whilst also maintaining your productivity and well-being).

  1. Prioritise self-care without guilt

First and foremost, it’s crucial to prioritise self-care without feeling guilty. This means, that it’s perfectly acceptable to say no or postpone certain tasks. 

Neglecting your well-being is akin to trying to climb a mountain in flip-flops – you’re bound to struggle – so just as elite athletes prioritise their health to perform optimally, you should do the same.

Small acts like a quick walk, a chat with a friend, or a few minutes of meditation can significantly boost your energy and focus. Think of self-care as a necessary investment in your productivity.

  1. Master the art of saying ‘no’

Learning to say “no” is a strategic move, not a selfish one. Why? Because overcommitting can lead to burnout and decreased quality of work. To prevent this, you need to understand that your capacity is finite and prioritise the tasks that matter most. 

For example, politely decline new requests if they threaten your current commitments. Your clients will appreciate the high-quality work you deliver when not overburdened, rather than rushed, subpar results.

Alternatively, consider raising your prices! This approach can naturally manage your workload while increasing your earnings.

  1. Cultivate a positive mindset

During busy periods, long hours might be unavoidable in the short term. However, adopting a positive mindset can make a significant difference! 

For example, instead of focusing on all of the work that needs to be done, think about how this work is going to help you achieve your long-term goals, such as meeting profit targets or affording a well-deserved break later. Viewing this busy period as a temporary sprint can provide the motivation needed to push through.

  1. Actively manage your workload

Here are some practical strategies to help manage your workload:

Tame your inbox

A cluttered inbox can amplify stress, so simplify email management by using a “to-do” folder and batch-processing your emails. Responding in dedicated bursts rather than in real-time minimises interruptions and ensures that this “busy work” doesn’t take up your whole day.

With some emails, consider whether a phone call might be a more efficient response.

Turn off distractions

Modern devices bombard us with constant notifications and these distractions can derail your focus. Make sure to enable “do not disturb” modes on your devices to create a quieter work environment and turn your phone screen down to reduce visual distractions.

Delegate effectively

Delegation isn’t just for peak periods; it should be a regular practice. By consistently delegating lower-value tasks to junior team members or virtual assistants, you can ease your load and ensure that you’re working on the higher-value tasks that are essential to business growth.

  1. Minimise decision fatigue

Decision fatigue is real, and by the end of a long day, even simple choices can feel overwhelming. So what can you do to fix this? Reduce daily decisions elsewhere in your life. Maybe that means planning meals weekly or using meal preparation services. Similarly, structuring your work schedule in advance can minimise decision-making throughout the day, conserving your mental energy for the big things.

  1. Take breaks

Short breaks are essential for maintaining focus and energy levels, so throughout the day, make sure to step away from your desk for a walk, chat with a colleague, or practise deep breathing exercises. Remember, breaks are not a sign of laziness but a necessary part of sustaining productivity.

By implementing these strategies, you can better manage your workload during busy periods and maintain both your productivity and well-being. Remember, the ebb and flow of work are natural, and with the right approach, you can navigate these peaks efficiently and effectively.

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