In every walk of life people have to deal with pressure, and AMCs and advisors are no different. A demanding workload can be stressful and can even break you at times. So it is important to have a coping mechanism.
Here are a few tips to help you manage a demanding workload.
Make a to-do list
List the tasks that you need to complete. You can put down the list on a paper or put up sticky notes on your computer. You can work one by one on each item and narrow down the list. It will help you keep track of the outstanding tasks and let you know where you stand currently.
Get your priorities straight
Rank the tasks according to priority. Put important and urgent tasks on the top of your list and then work your way down. It will allow you to focus more on the important tasks as opposed to the less important ones.
Set realistic deadlines for yourself
Estimate the time required for each task and make the day’s plan accordingly. Don’t be overoptimistic. Be honest with yourself about what you can achieve in a day so that you don’t feel overwhelmed later.
Avoid multi-tasking
Avoid picking up a task, working a bit on it and then starting on another. Doing a number of jobs simultaneously means more confusion and the task won’t get your full attention. Deal with them one at a time and finish one before starting another. Your mind will be clear and ready for the next task.
Keep an eye on the schedule
Check your schedule to know how your work is going. Are you ahead of or behind time? If you are ahead, then you can take time to cross-check the work and if you are behind, you will realise you need to put in more effort. Doing this will make you more efficient.
Avoid distractions
People are usually more active in the morning, so try to complete most of the work in the morning rather than reserving it for later. Also, put your phone on the silent mode. You can also plug in earphones and listen to calming music during breaks to keep you more relaxed and focused.
Take a break
If you are working for long hours, take a break. Every 90 minutes or so, get up from your desk and stretch. Or you can take a 10-minute walk or have a glass of water. If you are feeling overwhelmed, try deep breathing. Sit up so that your head, neck and spine are in a straight line, close your eyes and inhale using the diaphragm and lungs. You will find your shoulders and your whole body feel more relaxed now and your mind is fresh once again.
