What do you do if your time and tasks as a leader are overwhelming?

I find it helpful to write my tasks on a 3x5. The size is manageable, so the effect is that I feel less overwhelmed. I also cross out completed items in a different color ink to help me see the list getting smaller. At the end of the day, I transfer remaining items to a new card and add new items.

Prioritizing tasks is essential when your task list is overwhelming and time is limited. One effective method for prioritization is the Eisenhower Matrix, which categorizes tasks based on their urgency and importance. Urgent and important tasks should be tackled first, followed by important but not urgent tasks. Tasks that are neither urgent nor important can be delegated or eliminated if possible. Another prioritization technique is the ABC method, where tasks are ranked from A (most important) to C (least important). This method helps you focus on high-priority tasks and ensures that essential tasks are completed first.

Delegation is a powerful tool for managing a growing task list. Identify tasks that others can handle effectively and delegate them accordingly. Delegating tasks not only frees up your time but also allows others to develop new skills and take on more responsibility. When delegating tasks, ensure that the person you delegate to has the necessary skills and resources to complete the task successfully. Provide clear instructions and guidelines to ensure that the task is completed to your satisfaction.

Time blocking is a time management technique that involves allocating specific blocks of time for different tasks. This approach helps you focus on one task at a time and avoid multitasking, which can be counterproductive. Start by identifying your most important tasks and allocating dedicated blocks of time for them in your schedule. This helps you prioritize your time effectively and ensures that important tasks are completed on time. Time blocking also helps you avoid distractions and stay focused on the task at hand.

In today's VUCA environments, its very common to get overwhelmed at the tasks to be accomplished. Work-life balance can easily go for a toss leading to stress & anxiety. While sailing through such situation, follow the below vital 3 things and reflect on them regularly as part of your daily morning ME time rituals. 1) Learn to say NO - Dont be a people pleaser. Build courage & learn how to say no politely. Prioritize self-care first. 2) Seek support - Throw your ego and ask for help. Remember this is not a sign of weakness but an act of courage. 3) Prioritize tasks (80-20 pareto principle) & break it down into small tasks to feel the ease & cherish the accomplishments on the way.

Regularly review your task list and adjust priorities as needed. Circumstances can change quickly, so it's important to regularly reassess your priorities and focus on what is most important. By reviewing your task list regularly, you can ensure that you are making progress on important tasks and not getting bogged down by less important ones. Adjusting your priorities allows you to stay flexible and responsive to changing circumstances.