As I mentioned last week, things at work have gone sideways and the pressure is on. After our first week of extra long days, multiple meetings, and minimal argument, I’m happy to report that my “crisis team” is making progress and on track to meet a critical deadline in mid December. It’s going to take a lot of work, but we’re committed, we’re focused, and we’re drinking a lot of coffee. Even though nerves are frayed and obstacles keep popping up, we’re staying on track and supporting each other. The biggest challenge is that this project has essentially been added to the work we were already doing, and we’re all people who put in 50 or 60 hours a week (or more) as a general rule.
My team isn’t alone in feeling overworked and over-scheduled. I see it across my organization, in my friends, in my family, and in a lot of the blog posts I read. We’re living in a world that constantly pushes us to do more, achieve more, work more, and be more. I’m not saying that’s always a bad thing; I’m a workaholic who prefers to be busy and productive, and I think it’s important to work towards your own picture of success. However, while the world is always happy to tell us to push forward, it doesn’t always pair that with the right messages about how and when, or how to do so with a healthy balance to avoid burnout. As this blog nears the one year mark, I’ve been looking back over my posts and noted that these are issues I’ve returned to on multiple occasions.
If you’ve missed any of those posts, or could use a few reminders, please check them out:
- Tips to Increase Productivity Part One
- Tips to Increase Productivity Part Two
- Things to Remember When There’s Too Much to Do
- Quick Fixes for a Bad Mood
- Dealing With Stress in the Moment
- Motivation Tips
How is your schedule and workload looking these days?
Amanda Cade 
This was exactly what I needed today. Was profoundly unmotivated, and a shot of reminders of how to get myself in the right head space was a perfect way to perk me up.
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Great! I hope you’re able to stay in the right mindset and have a good day.
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So far so good! Thank you again! 😀
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Your response to overwork is highly professional and indicative of a praiseworthy work ethic. That said, you may want to think of a way to balance those 50-60 hour workweeks. As we age, it becomes a difficult juggling act. I found that physical exertion goes a long way to achieving a balance, and recommend martial arts. Sparring provides the added benefit of taking on potential frustrations against make-believe aggression. It’s a good way to fight the potential depression long work hours may bring. Good luck to you.
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I really enjoy my job, so the extra hours are easier than they would be in different circumstances. I mostly work out at home. I’ve taken classes a few times, including martial arts, but always ended up having trouble being consistent when things popped up in my schedule. Sounds like it’s a great outlet.
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Now add to that, the seasonal stress load about to begin. But I think you mentioned in an earlier blog that you looked forward to the holidays, which would then become positive stress for you. Anyway, thanks for the tips.
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I love the holidays. Luckily, I started shopping last month, so I’m in pretty good shape at this point.
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Good post Amanda. I remember those days. Now that I am retired, I wonder how I used to find time to work. As my retired neighbour has always said….”Allan, when you are retired, there are no days off.” Happy Sunday Amanda. Allan
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Excellent post Amanda! My days of overworking are done now that I am retired. Now if I can’t get to it or just don’t want to I do it tomorrow.
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I just got off an especially heavy work week. It’s comforting knowing I’m not alone. Thankfully I was blessed with an easier schedule next week. I wish the same for you, good luck!
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I’m glad you’re looking at an easier week.
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Nice post, as always! My workload could be improved but that’s a good thing right now. I’m enjoying the slow times because one day I’ll look back and realize how much I miss them!
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I’m definitely missing the slow times right now. Lol. However, I’ve also been energized by the fast pace and accomplishments of the past few weeks, so there are definitely positives in all the craziness.
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