How do You Know Whether You are Overworked or Overwhelmed?
- Author Helen Thamm
- Published August 17, 2012
- Word count 455
What is the difference between being truly overworked and a feeling of being overwhelmed?
Is is not uncommon with all the downsizing, which I understand is now called "right sizing", you may in fact be asked to do more than is humanly possible at least without a lot of overtime to accomplish. You may sometimes feel you have a choice between not completing a project on time if you choose to keep your work and home life in balance, and risking the boss’s disapproval, or doing a less than stellar job in order to get it done by the deadline. Therefore, being overworked could be a real issue.
On the other hand, overwhelm is more of a feeling. Sometimes people with really active minds for example, have a hard time concentrating on one project/task or have trouble prioritizing which project/task to do first. Have you ever worked with someone who seems to be buzzing around like a bee, flitting from flower to flower, but never seems to complete one task? Trying to multitask often resembles the busy bee, but most experts agree that completing one task/project before starting another helps a person to be more productive. The focused person may appear a bit slower than the busy bee, but their more steady pace actually accomplishes more. In nursing, professionals also have to consider the impact on patients if a nurse appears rushed. Sometimes patients even misinterpret rushing (usually accompanied by a serious expression) as being less warm, and receptive to them as people in need of their nurse’s care.
Here are some tips to recognize whether you might be experiencing overwork or overwhelm, and how you can deal with either one more effectively:
Differences between overwork and overwhelm include:
OVERWORK
-
Discuss delegating some "old" tasks to others with your boss when he/she adds a new one.
-
Tactfully decline OT—judiciously.
-
Request a decreased workload briefly when a report is due.
OVERWHELM
-
Make a priority list of projects—work on the most important one first.
-
Assess your day and document in between tasks as possible.
-
Preplan/prework part of a big report when you have "down" time.
None of us can totally control our work environments or workload at times (emergencies do happen). Being aware whether we are feeling the effects of actually having too much on our plate (I then rename a platter full of work) or whether we are reacting more on the emotional level, can help empower us as female professionals to utilize the coping behaviors above to proactively deal with either issue.
Work wellness is important for overall health and balance helps female professionals, especially those in the health care field, keep your career passion alive!
Helen M. Thamm, APRN,CPC is a certified career success and wellness coach. She is the author of the new manager’s success toolkit book: How to Manage with a Magic Wand (No, Don’t Hit Your "Problem Employees" over the Head with it!) and co-author with Dr. John Ellis of the bestselling book: The Wellness Code. Visit nursecareersuccess.com for a free copy of her ebook "How to knockout burnout and beat bully behavior.
Article source: https://articlebiz.comRate article
Article comments
There are no posted comments.
Related articles
- The Role of Lighting Stores in Brampton: Shaping Spaces for the Future
- The Role of Commercial Cleaning Services in Auckland: A Comprehensive Guide
- Exploring the World of Chauffeur Service: Benefits, Challenges, and Best Practices
- Nerds and Geeks: They still live on!
- IQ Tests: History, Uses, and Choosing a Reliable Resource
- 8 Great Ways To Teach Kids About Oral Hygiene
- App Development as a Catalyst for Business Growth
- Costs of arranging a Mortgage in Spain
- TikTok and Instagram: Ways you will grow and learn.
- Mustang GT: Ford Motor Company is a Rising Force!
- 10 Ways to Transform Production Scheduling in Business Central
- Elevating Your Home with Bold Decor and Vintage Carved Doors
- The Ultimate Skin Care Guide for Every Weather
- Do I Need Insurance When I Rent a Boat?
- Casino Bonuses: How to Maximize Your Rewards and Enhance Your Gameplay
- Was Joseph Stalin a good or bad leader of the Soviet Union?
- Top 5 Slots with the Highest RTP: A Winning Guarantee or a Myth?
- The Thrill of the Hunt Discovering the World of Location-Based Entertainment
- How Much Is the Hermès Cleaning Fee?
- Does Hermès Offer Free Repairs?
- The history of gun control in Australia
- Digital Marketing
- How to Mix and Match: Tips for Building Versatile Outfits from Your Wardrobe
- The Significance of Commercial Cleaning Services in Auckland: A Key Element of the Modern Cleaning Industry
- How RTP Impacts Online Casino Gaming: A Guide for Players and Operators
- How Authentic Employee Reviews Boost Employer Branding
- How to Choose the Best Online Casino: 5 Simple Steps
- Guaranteed Auto Financing
- Transform The Mudroom for The Festive Season
- Rustic Thanksgiving Ambiance with Farmhouse-inspired Doors