Four Point Action Plan
POINT 1
Stop judging yourself. We usually have help to get into this position. Family, friends, staff and employers can contribute to our over commitment issues. However you have acknowledged the issue and the great news is it can now be fixed!
POINT 2
Do not underestimate this part of the process. On paper, draw a line down the centre. As a heading write ‘Me’ on one side and ‘Others’ on the other.
Think of your responsibilities in terms of which ones you must complete and which tasks someone else could complete. Do not make the list based on if others would want to complete the task.
Make a list of your responsibilities on the appropriate side.
POINT 3
Review the list the next day and ask for input if needed by someone who is trustworthy, not jealous of you, sensible and fair. Finding this person is sometimes the most challenging part of this activity.
POINT 4
Begin making adjustments to your responsibilities. Speak calmly, not emotionally with your family, friends, employer and or staff as needed.
If your are management, have the discussion with the appropriate staff, keeping in mind that you are not trying to create and overcommitment situation for them. If needed, you should consider if your scope of services are too large. Get input, check results and sales if applicable. Feedback does usually help.
Do not blame anyone, keep the conversations focused on the results of the overcommitment right now and the beneficial results of the needed changes. There may be some resistance as people like to keep things comfortable, especially for themselves.
Those who care will hear you. If your stress, anxiety, frustrations and well-being is ignored or only acknowledged and people go right back to the previous status, you have to make some decisions and be okay with the potential result.
Your well-being matters. Take care of yourself for you and the people who love you.