How To Handle the Workplace, But Not Be Overloaded By It
Being on target with work within the workplace is important to all of us. Some days we feel like we are doing it right. Other days, not so much. Little things happen, meetings run too long and eat up most of the work time, meaning you will be working late again. Unexpected personal problems arise. Someone in the family is ill or there is a house project that has to be solved right now. Or, you were alert and busy in the morning and now your afternoon is sagging.
Whatever the problem, we all occasionally shoot ourselves in the foot. Check out these common workplace faux pas and how to properly navigate them.
Brooding over past problems
This may be the fourth time this week that you feel you were overlooked and your mood gets steadily worse. It’s hard to work when you are truly angry. Talk to your boss and find out what went wrong and what can be done. Clearing the air will make you feel better and make you more productive.
Plucking off all of the easy tasks in the a.m.
It does get you moving, but later in the day when energy is running low you may still have quite a workload to finish.
Trying to be everywhere at once
You always try to cooperate and say yes to meetings, small requests, favors, etc. But sometimes you wind up short when you overdo this. Workloads just keep accumulating.
Assuming you can do anything with just a little more effort
If you are in a new job and the workload is weighty, take a minute to really see what is needed. Just plunging ahead will get work done, but there may be some quick answers that will speed it along or simplify it.
Pinning every last detail down
We all like to feel like we have the job covered, but running everything to the ground can lead to rigidity that cuts into your overall performance. Try to hit a balance planning ahead and being open to some changes. Others will appreciate your attitude and you will keep moving with less frustration.
Weakening your work with a non-stop social schedule
You may be one of those people who only needs four hours a night, but when the body gets tired the mind frequently follows. And there’s only so much espresso that can keep the gears moving. If your workload just seems to be stuck, step back and look at how many week nights you are out with friends. Or how many weekend trips stretch out into late Sunday night leaving you to struggle back on Monday. Just a little adjusting could keep you happy and productive at work.
When the work keeps backing up, do yourself a favor and take a moment to really figure it out.
