Playing "Catch Up"

I have had a respiratory infection all week that forced me to have to clear just about everything on my schedule, setting me back on some activities that I had really hoped to get done. Even a planned break from the daily grind, like a vacation, can also throw us into a tailspin when we return to "normal" functioning.

To more easily get back on track, I try to categorize my backed-up tasks based or priority. I list everything I need and want to do. Next to each item, I indicate if the task is Urgent (U) or Important (I). Important might be paying a stack of bills, and a bill that is due this week may be both Urgent and Important. Returning phone calls might have a sense of urgency, but those calls which are most important will take priority.

I also will indiciate if the tasks is external - meaning I have to leave my home or office to complete it. This way, when I am out, I can easily look at my list and see if there are additional errands I can take care of. I do the Important and Urgent first, the Important next, and then the Urgent. Things that are neither urgent or important can wait until I get all caught up.

When you feel overwhelmed with all you have to get done, using a simple system like this can help you to quickly develop a game plan to get things back in order.