Disclosure – this is a collaborative post.
When life feels like a whirlwind, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and feel like you have no control over your schedule or tasks. However, there are techniques you can use to gain back a sense of control, even when things feel chaotic. This article will provide tips to help you feel more in charge of your time and obligations when your calendar is jam-packed.
Prioritise Your Tasks
One of the best ways to feel more in control of a hectic schedule is to prioritise your tasks. Make a list of everything you need to do and rank the items by importance and urgency. Focus first on the high priority tasks that need immediate attention. Checking a few urgent items off your list will provide a sense of accomplishment and productivity.
For tasks lower down on the priority list, consider if you can delegate them to someone else. Identify any items that can wait until the schedule slows down. Simply creating a prioritised to-do list will help instil order amongst the chaos.
Schedule Focus Blocks
When every minute is accounted for, it’s difficult to focus on important projects without interruptions. Schedule designated blocks of time devoted solely to priority tasks. Turn off notifications and avoid multitasking during these sessions. Knowing you have focused time allotted will help you stay on track with key items, even as other demands compete for your attention. Use focus blocks to chip away at big goals rather than constantly reacting in the moment.
Take Brief Breaks
Working in a frenzied state for too long can quickly lead to burnout. Schedule short breaks to recharge your mental energy. Even taking five minutes to step outdoors for fresh air or enjoying a quick snack can help clear your head. Use break time to catch your breath before diving back into a busy schedule. Consider using part of your break for a mindfulness exercise like deep breathing or meditation. This can reduce stress levels and sharpen your focus.
Fuel Your Body Properly
Sticking to a regular eating schedule with healthy snacks can provide sustained energy when your days are long and hectic. Low blood sugar can exaggerate feelings of anxiety and make focusing difficult. Keep your mind and body nourished by eating every few hours. Stock your desk drawer or bag with convenient snacks like protein bars, nuts, fruits and vegetables. Drinking plenty of water prevents dehydration, which also negatively impacts concentration and mood. And if you need an extra pick-me-up, consider trying glucose chews, like Lift Glucose.
Review and Reset Daily
Take time at the end of each day to review your checklist and assess your progress. This allows you to hit reset and start fresh the next day with a new plan. Identify any unfinished items that still require your attention and schedule them into the next day accordingly. Checking off completed tasks will provide a sense of control. Making a new list also keeps you focused on one day at a time, rather than getting overwhelmed by the week’s demands all at once.
Ask for Help When Needed
You don’t have to go it alone when your schedule feels out of control. Ask colleagues, friends or family for help with errands or tasks that don’t require your direct attention. Delegating some items frees up time and mental space. Consider hiring assistance like a virtual assistant for administrative tasks. Identify any obligations you can cancel, reschedule or shorten. Reducing or sharing your workload restores a sense of manageability.
Feeling in control of your schedule is possible, even when responsibilities pile up and days feel frantic. Implementing even small habits makes a big difference in feeling empowered rather than overwhelmed.
Disclosure – this is a collaborative post.
