Pace Yourself in the Hustle & Bustle of the New Year

The first day back at work after a holiday break can be overwhelming. As you sit down at your desk, it is easy to feel like a mountain of tasks await you. Thoughts race through your mind. How can I tackle it all? Is everything a top priority? Does it all need to be done now?

The answer is no. Even if it feels like the world is moving at a rapid pace, not everything requires your immediate attention. The key is to create a calm, stable presence starting with yourself.

Here are some tips to help you find your center and stay productive as you dive into the new year:

1️⃣ Take a step back and breathe – This sounds simple, but it is incredibly effective. Taking a few deep breaths can help clear your mind and ease the anxiety of the moment.

2️⃣ Look at your workload and categorize – Take a moment to sort tasks into categories, like Projects, Meetings, and Emails. Once you have done this, it is much easier to prioritize and focus on what matters most.

3️⃣ Create a plan for Q1 – You do not need to plan out the entire year, but having a simple plan for the first quarter can help give you direction. Choose a tool that works for you and refine the data to stay current. A plan can quickly become your best friend in staying on track.

4️⃣ Get ahead of the week – Take a look at your calendar and plan your week ahead. Color-code your meetings and tasks to visually separate what needs your focus on any given day. And remember to schedule shorter meetings, leaving time between sessions for transitions.

5️⃣ Carve out time to move – Sitting at a desk all day is not good for anyone. Schedule time to stand, walk around, or even step outside for some fresh air. It will help you reset and recharge.

The key is to pace yourself. Stay calm, take it one step at a time, and you will find your rhythm in the midst of the flurry.

If you’re interested in learning more about these tips and how to implement them, feel free to book some time with me:
https://lnkd.in/gKWwgrSP