3 Tips for Handling Work Overload

With layoffs and cut backs, work overload has become the norm. The resulting stress is unhealthy, unproductive, and frankly, unpleasant. Whether you are your own boss or you are working for someone equally demanding, here are three ways to streamline your work life:

1. Prioritize ruthlessly. Take a strict approach to time management; look closely at where you're spending your time and redirect your energy to the highest priorities. One of your priorities should always be to take time for yourself and recharge.

2. Eliminate time wasters. Stop working on projects and initiatives that are going nowhere. Ask yourself or your team which projects are the biggest drains on energy with the least return.

3. Push back. Be sure whoever is in charge (and that may be you) is prioritizing requests for your time; push back before you reach the point of overload and ask for help in figuring out what needs to get done now and what can wait until later.