During the last few weeks, people have seemed busier. New business opportunities are cropping up and people are responding with appropriate enthusiasm. One of my colleagues commented that work is flowing her way and she’s delighted with the influx.

Although leaders are thrilled with the inflow, the challenging aspect is managing it. This obviously flows downstream in the organization. Managers are complaining about their grouchy team members who are balking at the increase in work.

Some of the following suggestions may seem obvious, but they may be a good reminder of what to do (and not!) when you have the happy problem of more work.

Be realistic about what you can and cannot do. If you won’t be able to focus on a new client for another three weeks, be honest and tell them that you’re booked in the meantime.

Do what you say you’re going to do. If you tell someone that you’ll call back by the end of the day, make the call.

If you can’t complete what you promised, own up to it. Everyone gets busy, and people understand that. It’s better to come clean and say that you’re not finished rather than to avoid the client.

Review your weekly schedule and edit (or delete) other less urgent activities based on the heavier workload.

These tips are all about self-management. You know yourself better than anyone does, especially if you’re prone to try to “do it all” when “all” may mean that your life disappears under an out-of-control to do list.

Instead of cramming “all of it” into your week, manage it instead. Let me know how you’re doing!

Header image by Adriana/Adobe Stock.