Imagine a scene where someone attempts the improbable task of stuffing an octopus into a suitcase. Arms flailing, some go in while others escape, and closing the lid seems nearly impossible. Have you ever felt like this amidst the chaos of busyness, either personally or witnessed it in your office?

In a world constantly pushing for more productivity with fewer resources, mastering the art of multitasking and prioritisation is only a fraction of the solution. For some, saying “Yes” or “No” at the right times remains an undeveloped skill, and balancing this with managing expectations can prove challenging. Others struggle with basic organisational tasks.

A crucial skill to hone is the ability to discern between urgent and important matters while filtering requests accordingly. The adage “A lack of planning on your part doesn’t constitute an emergency on mine” rings true, but delivering this response supportively is key to success.

Here are some practical tips to avoid feeling like you’re wrangling an octopus:

• Plan Your Time: Utilise your calendar to schedule tasks, encouraging others to do the same. Assess new requests against your existing schedule to determine their priority and urgency before committing.
• Contain the Panic: Panic often distorts urgency and importance. Address irrational fears by asking pertinent questions about the potential outcomes. Understanding the consequences of action or inaction is a solid starting point.
• Share the Load: Collaborate and offer assistance when you see others struggling. Fostering an environment of teamwork and shared responsibilities enhances overall efficiency beyond completing tasks.
• Manage Expectations: Clearly define success criteria for yourself and others. When everyone understands what constitutes success or achievement, it becomes easier to gauge the impact of your efforts accurately. Avoid spending time on solutions that may not align with broader interests or objectives.

In a world filled with competing demands, mastering these strategies can transform chaotic situations into opportunities for effective time management and collaboration.