“I have too much on my plate right now,” we’ve all heard. But have you ever taken stock of what you have on your plate? When we have a lot going on, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but the truth is that we frequently overthink and overestimate the amount of work we have to do.
Making a list of all your active projects is a powerful exercise for gaining perspective. It’s simple to keep everything in your head, but writing it down lets, you see the big picture and understand what’s truly important.
Begin by listing all the projects, big and small, that you are currently working on. Include everything from work projects to housework to hobbies and personal objectives. Once you’ve made your list, rank each item in order of importance. This will assist you in determining which tasks are critical and which can be postponed or delegated.
Then, divide each project into smaller tasks. This will help you understand how long each project will take and how to manage your time and energy better.
Finally, go over your list and ask yourself, “What can I cut or delegate?” We frequently take on more than we can handle out of fear of disappointing others or because we believe we must do everything ourselves. But the truth is that it is acceptable to say no and to seek assistance.
By taking stock of what you have on your plate, you can better understand what is and is not essential. You’ll be able to prioritise your time and energy, reducing overwhelming feelings.
So, the next time you find yourself saying, “I have too much on my plate,” take a step back and make a list of all your ongoing projects. You’ll be surprised at how much perspective and clarity you’ll gain.”