86: A Step by Step Exercise to Address Overwhelm at Work

How Do You Address Overwhelm at Work? I talk to so many nonprofit leaders who are overwhelmed and feel like they're wearing ALL The hats. I also talk to grant writers who are overwhelmed because they're juggling so many plates with all the different projects going on. The question that relates to both is: How do you move forward? We need to start by identifying and addressing the overwhelm. Last week we talked about naming the thing - the decision, the project, the reason, the problem. Then you know what you're working with. Now we need to clarify your priorities. Today we're going to walk through a practical exercise to help you with this. A Step by Step Exercise to Reduce Overwhelm Start with big paper, pen, and highlighters or markers. Find a distraction-free space where you can be alone and spread out. Brain dump ALL your work responsibilities on the paper. Seriously, everything you can think of. Now step back and answer this question: If you only had two hours a day to work, what would you focus on? Highlight or circle the items you identified in Step 3. Which things came to the top? Look for patterns or surprises. Here's the thing. We have to account for the mental weight we carry about our work, even when we're not working. How can you shed some of that weight? In other words, what can you: Eliminate Simplify Postpone Delegate The goal is to make the most impact on your mission - without burning out your people. To do that, you need to be intentional. This is part of what I work with grant writers and nonprofits on, helping them gain clarity, prioritize, and focus. Listen to the full episode for examples and deeper discussion of each. Challenge Question: If you only had 2 hours a day to work, what would you focus on? Give it some thought, and then use what you find to go change your world! Connect with me over on LinkedIn or send me a message and I'll share more resources with you. Free Audit: How Grant-Ready Is Your Nonprofit? Are you feeling overwhelmed with trying to help your nonprofit apply for grants? Go through the free audit and I'll help you sort out the next steps for your organization. Do You Have What It Takes to Be a Grant Writer? Take the Quiz: If you're ready to explore a career in grant writing, take my free quiz, "Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer?" People are always surprised at how many skills they already have. The distance isn't as far as they thought. Let's figure out how you can use your skills to help change your world. If you're ready to step up your nonprofit game in 2022, join me on the Fast Track to Grant Writer. The world needs you. Other Resources Mentioned: Episode 63: Systems for Hire: Ways to Help Your Nonprofit Thrive Episode 76: Using Constraints as Containers for Creative Progress Instead of Roadblocks Episode 84: Encouragement for the Overwhelmed Nonprofit Leader: 9 Ways to Recharge Episode 85: How to Start As a Grant Writer When You're Overwhelmed Wondering how to find grants and keep up with all the applications? Check out Instrumentl! It's a robust grant search, tracking, and project management tool. Connect with Teresa Huff: Website: www.teresahuff.com Take the Quiz: Do you have what it takes to be a grant writer? Social: LinkedIn Community LinkedIn Instagram Pinterest Get on the Fast Track to Grant Writer: www.teresahuff.com/vip