Feeling Overwhelmed? Let’s Rethink Time Management?

Listen to the full Podcast Episode on YouTube.

Ever feel like your to-do list is out to get you? Like no matter how hard you try, there’s always something left undone? You’re not alone! Recently, I’ve been hearing from so many people who feel completely overwhelmed by all the things on their plate. And let’s be honest — we’ve all been there.

I used to think that if I just worked a little harder, stayed a bit later, I’d finally get everything done. At the beginning of my career, I used to leave my office on a Friday with an empty desk. But when’s the last time that actually happened to you? Exactly! It’s not about your age or efficiency. The reality is, these days there’s just too much to do.

So, let’s get real about time management.

I’m sure you’ve seen that popular video about the jar and the stones — the one that talks about prioritizing by starting with the big rocks (your major projects) and then filling in the smaller stuff (the endless little tasks like emails and messages). It's a great way to think about efficiency, and it works — to an extent. But here’s the catch: there’s way more rocks and sand than there is room in the jar now.

No matter how well you prioritize, there’s too much to fit in. So what do you do?

First, it's about getting clear on priorities. What’s the most important thing on your list? What really needs to be done today, and what can wait (or maybe not get done at all)? It’s not just about being efficient anymore. It’s about being strategic.

Here are a few things to try:

1. Do it or schedule it: If a task takes less than two minutes, just get it done. If it’s bigger, don’t let it linger on your to-do list — put it in your calendar. You’re way more likely to get it done if you’ve blocked out time for it.
2. Delegate: What tasks don’t actually need your attention? Can you hand them off? This doesn’t just mean delegating to your team. It could be asking a colleague for help, leaning on your manager, or using AI tools (they’re a game changer for solopreneurs like me!).
3. Learn to say no: This is a big one. Saying no is tough, but every time you say yes to something new, you’re saying no to something else — often to your own needs. Don’t let your schedule control you. Take charge and focus on what truly fits your goals and values.

At the end of the day, it’s not about cramming more into your schedule or finding some magic trick for efficiency. It’s about knowing your priorities, delegating where you can, and being okay with saying no when you need to.

So, what’s your approach? How are you handling all the demands these days?

Wishing you a productive and balanced week ahead!

Best, Christine