We've all been there. Facing deadlines and periodic intense pressure to perform at work is nothing new but what happens when that becomes the norm? When overload, overwork, and overwhelm becomes a daily expectation?
More and more public servant leaders say they face unrealistic performance expectations at work and that it's only getting worse. While you may not have control over the tsunami of work and expectations coming at you, you do have control over how you respond. Taking a step back to reflect on how to approach the situation in a professional, thoughtful, and proactive manner is critical to your well-being. Here are some ideas to consider:
- Evaluate the situation: Assess the expectations and tasks assigned to you objectively. Determine whether they are genuinely unrealistic or if there might be a misunderstanding or miscommunication. Consider the available resources, time constraints, and your own capabilities. Get out the paper and make lists to help you visualize.
- Communicate openly: Schedule a meeting with your supervisor or manager to discuss the situation. Express your concerns calmly and professionally, explaining why you believe the expectations are unrealistic or the workload is excessive. Provide specific examples and propose alternatives or compromises that could help address the issue. Always come with ideas and potential solutions.
- Prioritize and negotiate: If there are multiple tasks or projects on your plate, prioritize them based on importance and urgency. Communicate with your supervisor about your workload and ask for guidance on prioritization. Negotiate deadlines or ask for additional resources if necessary. Be willing to suggest alternative solutions or delegate tasks to other team members, if feasible.
- Seek support: Reach out to colleagues or teammates who might be able to offer assistance or guidance. Collaboration and teamwork can often help alleviate some of the burden. Consider discussing the situation with a mentor, coach or trusted colleague outside your immediate work environment for their perspective and advice.
- Set boundaries and manage expectations: If you find that consistently high expectations or excessive workloads are becoming the norm, it's essential to establish boundaries. Communicate your capabilities and availability realistically. Learn to say "no" when appropriate or propose alternative timelines or solutions that are more feasible.
- Take care of yourself: It's crucial to prioritize self-care and manage your well-being during challenging times. Ensure you're getting enough rest, practice stress management techniques like mindfulness and meditation, get regular exercise, eat well and remember the power of taking short breaks to refresh. Developing good habits and taking care of yourself physically and mentally will enable you to perform better and handle difficult situations more effectively. Consider finding a buddy to support each other at work.
- Document and track: Keep a record of the tasks assigned, deadlines, and any communications related to the situation. This documentation can be helpful if you need to escalate the issue or discuss it further with human resources or higher-level management. It can also help you make sometimes difficult decisions about your future career path.
Addressing the unreasonableness of performance expectations and workload is your responsibility - it requires open communication, a spirit of collaboration, and a proactive approach. By speaking up about your concerns and seeking solutions, you will get important feedback and can work towards finding a more manageable balance that benefits both you and your organization. If you don't and your tank is on empty, no one wins.
Inside Public Sector Leadership offers programs in practical wisdom for public sector leaders. Develop your political acumen and learn to navigate the unwritten rules of public sector leadership from leaders who have lived it. www.publicsectorleadership.ca
