What do you do if you're overwhelmed by the workload in a social impact role?
Working in a social impact role often means being deeply committed to making a difference, which can sometimes lead to feeling overwhelmed by the workload. The passion that drives you can also, paradoxically, be the source of stress when the to-do list seems endless. Remember, it's essential to manage your workload effectively to maintain your well-being and continue contributing positively. Here are some strategies that can help you cope when you're feeling swamped in your social impact role.
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Pallavi MahajanUnited Nations | Social Impact Consultant & Gender Expert | Published Author | Chevening Scholar
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Dr. Claire Green-Forde, LCSWHumanist. Keynote Speaker.Health Equity & Racial Justice Thought Leader. Executive & Organizational Leader. Mental…
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Isobel FryeExecutive Director at Social Policy Initiative
When the workload feels insurmountable, it's crucial to prioritize tasks. Identify the most urgent and important tasks that align with your organization's goals and your role's objectives. Consider the impact of each task and focus on those that will have the greatest positive effect. This way, you can ensure that your efforts are concentrated on areas where you can make the most significant difference, which is the heart of social impact work.
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If you're experiencing signs of burnout or being overwhelmed and need help, you can do the following: 1. Establish boundaries, distinguishing between work and personal time. Be watchful of time and space. 2. Decentarlize leadership and delegate work which will save you time for yourself. 3. Actively pursue hobbies with the same piety as you approach your work. 4. Speak to the team on resource allocation and support when you're too clogged with time.
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I find it really helpful to identify the various component tasks that build towards the final finished output. This enables me to see if through prioritising certain tasks I can in fact use one step to leverage or leapfrog over other steps. Using strategic spring boarding is essential if you are able to do it.
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My three strategies when I feel overwhelmed with workload: 1.) Prioritize each day and timebox tasks. 2.) Delegate any and everything that I can. 3.) Schedule in activities that allow me to take care of myself and advocate for my mental and emotional wellness (i.e. taking a walk after lunch, shutting my phone off at 7pm, meditating in the evening, etc.).
Delegation is a key skill in any role, but it's particularly vital when working towards social impact. If you're feeling overwhelmed, assess which tasks can be shared with or handed off to colleagues. Remember, delegation isn't just about offloading work; it's about empowering others and working as a team to achieve common goals. By delegating effectively, you can lighten your workload and strengthen your team's capacity to create change.
Good time management is essential for handling a heavy workload. Break down your tasks into manageable parts and set realistic deadlines for yourself. Use tools like calendars or task managers to keep track of your commitments and plan your day accordingly. Allocating specific time slots for each task can help you stay focused and make steady progress without becoming overwhelmed.
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Effective time management is a practice. Rehearse these techniques to maximize your productivity and efficiency. Break down large tasks into smaller, manageable chunks, and set realistic deadlines for completion. Use tools such as calendars, to-do lists, and task management apps to organize your workload and stay on track.
Never underestimate the importance of self-care, especially in a demanding social impact role. Stress can impair your ability to work effectively, so it's important to incorporate self-care into your routine. This could include regular breaks, exercise, hobbies, or mindfulness practices. Taking care of yourself isn't just good for you; it's also crucial for maintaining the energy and resilience needed to make a difference.
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Burnout is very common and particularly in sectors that are high needs and high stakes. While I don't believe in the concept of self-care as it connotes a privilege that many aren't afforded, I do believe in collective care and that we have a shared responsibility to support each other in centering our well-being. Boundaries with your time, energy, and space are necessary. Create and maintain boundaries and do so unapologetically. Identify things that work for you and also seek support from others who can help contribute to you well-being, hold you accountable for taking the breaks and maintaining your boundaries, and who you can support as well.
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I know when I am getting close to overwhelm. I become far less productive and my strategic and leadership prowess begin to lose edge. Taking time for me is essential. I tell my team I am not available, without explaining or feeling guilty, and usually do some great exercise or have a massage. These help me to declutter and recalibrate.
Sometimes, the best way to manage a heavy workload is to seek support from others. This could involve discussing your challenges with a supervisor to find solutions or reaching out to peers for advice and moral support. Remember, it's okay to ask for help, and doing so can provide you with new perspectives and strategies to manage your workload more effectively.
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Don't hesitate to reach out for support when you're feeling overwhelmed. This work is heavy, and all around you should understand that. Talk to your ecosystem about workload and explore potential solutions together. Consider whether additional resources or assistance may be available to help alleviate the pressure. Remember that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and it can lead to better outcomes for both you and your organization's social impact initiatives. Onward!
Lastly, take time to reflect on what's causing you to feel overwhelmed and consider what changes could be made. Perhaps your goals are too ambitious, or maybe there are inefficiencies in your processes. Use these reflections to adjust your approach, set more realistic expectations, or find new ways to tackle your workload. Continuous reflection and adjustment are key to managing your responsibilities in a social impact role without burning out.
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With Social impact workload it's uunavoidable to get overwhelmed when this happens prioritize tasks focusing on high-impact activities. Break down large projects into smaller, manageable tasks. Set realistic goals and deadlines. Learn to say no to non-essential tasks. Seek support from colleagues, mentors, or mental health professionals. Practice self-care and boundaries. Celebrate small wins and acknowledge progress. Remember, sustainability is key to creating lasting social impact - prioritize your well-being
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