We all may wish that life will always provide an easy way out to success, but sometimes, that is not the case. As a Project Manager, there will surely be a time where you have to work on a difficult project or multiple projects that will take your time. Unfortunately, there is nothing we can do about the time – we cannot add even a second to the 24 hours that we have daily.
In the thick of managing several high-stakes projects, avoiding burnout is key. It is important to master the skill of dealing with pressure and avoiding stress as you work on your projects. How do you go about this?
- Set realistic goals
Break down tasks and set achievable daily targets. Taking down everything all at once can be frustrating on its own. In such moments, you need calm, and the best way to start is to take it all one day at a time. Set goals, but make sure they are realistic – in the sense that you are not setting goals that will overburden you. Break down your goals and structure them into daily mini goals.
2. Prioritize
Prioritization is one key skill that can save you a lot of stress. However, many people have not leant to prioritize. As a manager, do everything possible to learn the art of prioritization. Learn to focus on the urgent and important tasks before dealing with any other tasks. If you fail to prioritize, you will soon realize that the important tasks you failed to do earlier will become so urgent that you mat have to make extra sacrifices to get them done.
3. Delegate effectively
It is true that some managers love to do things on their own. But you must realize that the project is not for you alone to accomplish, that is why you have a team to work with. Managing a project does not mean that you are doing everything; it means you are doing everything to ensure the project is successful.
Allocate responsibilities based on team members’ strengths. That is the best way to delegate. Know what to delegate, whom to delegate to and when to delegate. Delegation can save you tons and time and effort for you to focus on other equally important goals.
4. Take deliberate breaks
No matter how much you work, you can never be on the same level throughout the day. Your body gets tired and depriving it of the rest it needs won’t help you accomplish too much. Schedule short, regular intervals to recharge mentally. Find time to rest. Find time to get your mind off the project and embrace the serenity around you. Be intentional about resting and staying away from work for a period of time in the day.
