Are you overwhelmed by all the things you have to do? You have to learn how to prioritise your tasks in order to regain control over your workload.
Analyse the tasks involved
The following tips will guide you to determine the priority of each task:
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- Begin by investigating the purpose of the various tasks and the consequences should some of them not be done immediately. For example, money is usually a top priority and any task creating income will be important.
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- Gather information such as due dates and estimate the approximate time it will take you to complete each task.
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- Consider who will be affected by a decision to delay the completion of a task. For example, if the manager of the company wants something done, it may be in your interest to prioritise that task rather than a task that someone further down the chain requires.
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- If a task is dependent on another task being completed first before you can begin working on it, you may need to set reminders to follow up and then plan accordingly.
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- Sometimes a task had been given previously to someone else who were unable to complete it. Talk to the people previously involved and, if possible, create a solution to ensure that mistakes are not repeated and thus take up your valuable time.
Compile a to-do list
Once you have a thorough understanding of the priority of the tasks, organise them in a to-do list format as follows:
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- Allocate a priority number next to each item on the list.
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- Schedule the tasks into your daily/weekly planner, bearing in mind due dates and estimated completion time.
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- Use a software package such as Microsoft Excel so that any new urgent items coming in can be added easily to the list. This method will allow you to feel in control of your workload.
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- Take a few minutes before you start your day to go through the list and make adjustments if and where necessary.
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- Work calmly through the list according to the priority given to the task. It will reduce the need to rush and will prevent mistakes.
If you are having trouble prioritising tasks either at work or at home, ask for help. Perhaps a colleague, employer or family member could be of some assistance. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. On the contrary, it is an indication that you are willing to work together as a team player and that you are open to feedback.
Sources
How to prioritize work when everything is #1. Retrieved from https://www.liquidplanner.com/blog/how-to-prioritize-work-when-everythings-1/
Six steps to prioritise tasks effectively. Retrieved from https://www.informa.com.au/insight/6-steps-to-prioritise-tasks-efficiently/
(Revised by M van Deventer)