How to Prioritize Your Workload

Keep a checklist, and stick to it.

If you have a job that involves a lot of multitasking, you can become overwhelmed easily. Sometimes, you just do not know what to do first. Prioritize your workload by making a list of tasks you must tackle, and complete them in order of importance. In addition to getting your work done, Helpguide notes that "Your newfound ability to maintain a sense of self-control in stressful situations will often be well-received by coworkers, managers, and subordinates alike, which can lead to better relationships at work."

Instructions

1. Commit to handling your important work for when you are most alert, if possible. Some people are morning people, and some come to life in the afternoon. Know yourself and your work patterns to help you prioritize your workload.

2. Go through the mail quickly when it arrives. Put items you need to file or act upon right away in one tray. Mail that might not be as urgent can go in another tray. Regardless, you should process all mail by the end of the work day.

3. Keep the work space in front of you clear of clutter. Visually, this will help you get to things more quickly because you will not be distracted by the huge piles at your left and right while you are working on a file squeezed in the middle. It is amazing how much you can get done when you do not have it all staring you in the face.

4. Break down the work you have to do into smaller tasks, and allot a specific amount of time to complete them. Use a spreadsheet to help track your priorities.

5. Use a calendar to track your deadlines, and complete all of the tasks you planned to do on a given day.

Tips & Warnings

• Plan breaks throughout your work day to help you clear your mind and relax you before you tackle the next item on your priority list.

• Even the most organized workers can become overwhelmed, especially in times of staff shortages. In those times, do the best you can. Administration is aware of staff shortages and aware when workers are being asked to go beyond the norm.

References

• Helpguide: Reduce Job Stress by Prioritizing and Organizing
• Time Management Success: How to Prioritize Work and Get It All Done