I'm being weighed down by too many commitments. How do I decide what to let go?

I have a lot of commitments, too many, I think. How do I decide what to remove?

-Accomplished executive trying to “right size” their career portfolio

Dear Accomplished Executive,

I’ve previously written about the importance of “anchor tenants” to help prioritize what is most important. But what happens when what’s considered "most important" changes? How do you let something go and make room for a new focus?

Just like the department store in the mall, the anchor tenants of your life can change. Maybe you want to accept a new opportunity or even dedicate more time to a hobby or honing a skill. While you can take on a new anchor tenant without letting one go, having more capacity also helps one grow.

One way you know it’s time to let go of something is when you find yourself complaining. If something is bothering you, it becomes necessary to determine how to fix it or figure out how to move on. Be resolute in your decision and fair to the entity—meaning you commit fully while you are there and work to end your tenure without breaking glass.

When you do leave, you should feel fulfilled, knowing that you did a good job and are leaving on a solid footing—as well as being intrigued by what’s next and inspired to do your best work. Don’t be too quick to fill that gap with another big action item that will consume you. Take time to reflect and think through the options so that you can make a measured decision. After all, this new commitment will be with you for a long time. (Some anchor commitments are with you for a lifetime, like family or some relationships, while others may last several years or decades.)

Once you gracefully extract yourself, carry the relationships and learnings with you. I’ve found that the relationships built, the friendships fostered, and memories made can last a lifetime. I’ve also worked to create new opportunities that would incorporate them. (I structured my investment network WIN, my focus after leaving an operating role, on this very idea.) Commitments can change but the legacy you are building is always evolving.

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