What to do when your plate is too full  

We've all experienced those days where we've achieved a remarkable amount of work, yet the feeling of accomplishment seems elusive. It's a common scenario, and many individuals find themselves grappling with managing time and workload efficiently. As a coach, I've encountered numerous clients facing this dilemma. They struggle with saying no or asking questions. The art of saying no can be a powerful tool in enhancing productivity and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Productivity often comes hand in hand with a heavy workload. While being productive is a positive attribute, it's crucial to strike a balance to prevent burnout. Clients frequently approach me with concerns about feeling overwhelmed despite being highly productive. The question then becomes: How can one effectively manage time and workload without succumbing to the pressure of accepting every task that comes their way?

The Power of Saying No:

Two simple yet profound phrases have played a pivotal role in my journey and in guiding my clients towards better time management.

1. Saying NO is actually reaffirming a previous yes:

Contrary to the misconception that saying no is a negative response, it's important to understand that every 'yes' is a commitment of time, energy, and resources. By saying no to additional tasks or responsibilities, you are, in fact, reaffirming your commitment to prior obligations. This mindset shift allows you to prioritize your existing commitments and deliver quality work without spreading yourself too thin.

2. No is a complete sentence:

Often, individuals feel compelled to provide elaborate explanations or justifications when declining a request. However, the simplicity of the phrase "No is a complete sentence" empowers you to set boundaries without the need for lengthy explanations. This direct approach not only saves time but also conveys a sense of assertiveness, making it easier to navigate through a demanding workload.

Practical Strategies for Implementing "No":

Now that we understand the power behind these phrases, let's explore some practical strategies for incorporating them into your daily routine:

*Prioritize Your Commitments: Assess your current workload and identify your top priorities. Check in with your direct managers on their and the companies priorities. By understanding your most important tasks, you can confidently say no (or something-keep reading) to requests that may derail your focus.

*Learn to Delegate: Delegating tasks is a skill that can significantly lighten your workload. Recognize that you don't have to do everything yourself and trust others to contribute to the overall success of the team or project. This can take time to build the trust and the systems needed to assure the work is done, and done to acceptable standards. (that is another blog post)

*Set Clear Boundaries: Communicate your boundaries effectively. Whether it's regarding working hours, project scope, or additional responsibilities, being clear about your limits helps others understand what you can realistically handle. This can be difficult for some. So try asking a question (put your coaching hat on) Does B take priority over A? Is B something that can wait a week while I complete A? (again another blog post completely)

*Another trick I have gotten push back on is to say “yes, and”. This in no way replaces the ability to say no. However, if you are a person who has been raised, or really is challenged by the word no, try saying yes and. “Yes, I am very interested in that project, and I am not able to really give it the focus it needs with my current priorities.” Yes, and helps those who can’t say no, say no.

In the fast-paced world of productivity, mastering the art of saying no is a valuable skill that can lead to enhanced efficiency, reduced stress, and a more fulfilling work-life balance. By understanding that saying no is a strategic move to protect your time and energy, you empower yourself to focus on what truly matters. Remember, saying no isn't a rejection; it's a conscious choice to prioritize your commitments and maintain your well-being in the process.

If you are challenged by the amount of things on your list to do, your absolutely full plate, reach out and let’s see how I can help. https://calendly.com/brendaloanbaker/strategy