Overwhelmed with Work? 4 Strategies to Manage Time and Energy

Feeling overwhelmed with work is a common issue, particularly for women in leadership roles who juggle multiple responsibilities. The constant pressure can lead to burnout and decreased productivity if not managed effectively.

This blog outlines practical strategies to help you manage your time and energy efficiently, ensuring you stay on top of your game. Many Iron Ladies have faced similar challenges and have successfully managed them using the tactics below.

1. ERRC Method: Eliminate, Reduce, Raise, Create: Utilise the ERRC method to optimise your tasks and reclaim your time. Begin by identifying and eliminating unnecessary tasks that don’t contribute to your goals. Reduce the time spent on tasks that can be streamlined or delegated. Raise tasks that need your attention and bring maximum impact, and create new strategies for efficiency.

(a). Eliminate: Remove redundant meetings from your schedule that don’t add value.

(b). Reduce: Shorten the duration of regular meetings by having a clear agenda and sticking to it.

(c). Raise: Focus on tasks that require your unique skills and have a high impact on your goals.

(d). Create: Develop new methods or tools that enhance productivity and streamline processes.

2. Time Tracking: Dedicate a week to meticulously tracking your time, noting each task and its duration. This practice will highlight time-wasting activities and provide insights into optimizing your efforts.

Example: Utilize a time-tracking app like Toggl or Clockify to log all your activities. At the end of the week, analyze the data to identify patterns and areas for efficiency improvements.

3. Delegation: Assign tasks that don’t align with your core responsibilities to others. Delegating these tasks frees up your time, allowing you to focus on high-priority projects that support your goals.

Example: If you’re spending excessive time on administrative tasks, delegate them to a capable team member or hire a virtual assistant. This shift enables you to concentrate on strategic planning and decision-making.

4. Play Your A Game: Top leaders play their A-Game 70% of the time. Aim to be the best version of yourself and do your best at any given moment.

(a). Set Intentions: Start each day with the intention to bring your A-Game. Aim to be your best and do your best at any moment.

(b). Reflect Daily: Note down three things that went well and three that didn’t. This helps spot areas of excellence and improvement.

(c). Celebrate Successes: Recognise daily wins. Whether it’s finishing a task early or overcoming a challenge, celebrate these moments to boost morale.

(d). Learn from Challenges: Turn setbacks into growth opportunities. Reflect on what could have been done differently and what lessons can be learned.

(e). Stay Consistent: Consistency is crucial. Show up and give your best effort every day, even when facing obstacles or distractions.

Example: Keep a journal where you note down your daily successes and challenges, reflecting on what you can improve. Recognize daily wins to boost morale and learn from setbacks to continually improve.

By utilising the ERRC method, tracking your time, delegating tasks, and consistently playing your A-Game, you can handle overwhelming workloads and continue to thrive in your role.

At Iron Lady, we equip women with the strategies needed to manage their time and energy effectively. Ready to master time management and boost your productivity? Equip yourself with the tactics to excel in your career with our Leadership Masterclass Program