Options for handling overwhelming workloads

Instead of working longer hours, work more intentionally.

- CHRISSY SCIVICQUE

IF you're like most professionals, your to-do list is longer than your actual day.

When the volume of work exceeds your available time and energy, it’s easy to spiral into frustration or guilt.But here’s the truth: an overwhelming workload isn’t necessarily a personal shortcoming. Often, it’s simply a logistical mismatch that requires deliberate recalibration. Having trained professionals across industries for more than 15 years, I’ve discovered that there are only three real options when you're overwhelmed: reduce the workload, increase efficiency or shift your mindset.

Reduce the workload

This is the most obvious (and usually the most resisted) option. While it may be possible to reduce your workload, it will probably require conversations that most people want to avoid. You might need to renegotiate deadlines, reallocate responsibilities, delegate more intentionally or leverage technology more effectively.

Resistance to this option usually comes from a well-meaning place — you want to be seen as a reliable and capable team player.

However, being overwhelmed doesn’t serve your team, your goals or your personal well-being. You are a human being with the normal and natural human limitations of time and energy.