You’re struggling to keep up with your workload. How can you make the most of your time?

Sometimes removing yourself from the hustle and bustle and creating a good old fashioned list is needed. Allow it all to be put onto paper or tech, but help yourself by getting a list you are then able to prioritise. Overwhelm isn’t fun, so taking the time to get back on track will make you feel more in control in the long run.

Whenever a task comes in, after reading it, I apply the Keep, Delegate, Delete method. Do I need to keep this task in my inbox to action? Can I delegate this to someone else and can I delete the email. Anything after this should go into a well organised filing system. I have folders for certain topics, including sub folders. I set rules for certain key words to go into the folders. Additionally, in previous roles whereby I was supporting Executives, I would use the traffic light system. How urgent is it to fulfil the task now (RED), can it wait a while but I will action (YELLOW) and can it wait/not urgent (GREEN) - this allowed communication and some breathing space to work on tasks you need to get done straight away.

I found the best way to prioritise is too do tasks where the most people are affected first. For example, collating timesheets is first priority as it affects the most people while feedback from a one on one meeting is low priority.

Prioritize your task because if you don't know what needs to be done no one else will. I will make one big list with everything that I need to do and then will drill down the the task that need to be done that day. It makes it less overwhelming and makes you feel like you have accomplished something when you are able to see that completed list. If at all possible delegate any task that you can but no anything to important or urgent.

To effectively manage a heavy workload and maximize your time, start by prioritizing tasks. Assess which assignments are most urgent or important and tackle them first. Allocate specific time blocks for each task, ensuring you focus on one thing at a time to increase efficiency. Utilize tools like to-do lists or digital planners to stay organized. If you find the workload consistently overwhelming, communicate openly with your manager. Discussing your workload can lead to adjustments or additional support. Additionally, delegate tasks when possible, and don't hesitate to ask for help from colleagues. Remember to take regular breaks to maintain productivity and avoid burnout.

Staying organized it another way, there is nothing worse than looking for misplaced file or document. While I am working I have controlled chaos but when I leave to the day my desk is always neat, there is nothing worse than coming into work with a mess from the previous day. Starts your day off on an unnecessary stressful note.

Delegating work is an essential skill for managers and leaders. It allows you to distribute tasks effectively, freeing up your time for more strategic activities.

As an EA currently working in the role, when I am truly under pressure, none of the above (high level AI suggestions, not the contributions) simply don't enter my mind. Can you relate? When the overwhelm is in full swing, no matrix, saying, system, delegation (not even an option for me) comes into play to save me What has saved me, is finding my voice and communicating with my Executives before I take on anything else Being realistic with how much I can get closed out in a day and come up with my own scale of urgency, ranging from 'can wait 2 weeks to business critical today' It is very hard for an EA to not want to get tasks closed out the same day they were set, we are naturally amazing at turning tasks around! NETWORK LEARN GROWN

Practice and experienc will help you apply all the above. The more times you do something, the less time it takes each time. Add applicable new technologies that are your best tools for saving time.