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Worker worries about putting out fires

By Amy Dickinson, Tribune Content Agency on

Dear Amy: I have a good job, with a great boss. I like some aspects of the work I do, because I can see that it is making a difference in my community.

The issue with my job is that it is very reactionary. I try to plan ahead, but my primary job consists of responding to requests as they come in. This means that when I show up for work one day, I may have a known big project that I'm working on, but then I will also face two or three other "urgent" or "immediate" needs that my boss also needs me to meet.

I've been at the job for a while, and I thought I was just getting on top of the dynamic nature, but now I've found myself getting even more projects handed to me. I am now struggling to manage everything I have and feel like it is constantly spinning out of control.

I find myself debating whether the issue is I just don't fit well in this job (I'm more a big-picture than a detail-oriented person), and if I need to find a new job.

Is there a better way to manage the chaos?

-- Overwhelmed

 

Dear Overwhelmed: You may see yourself as a "big-picture" person, but you have obviously proved your skill at putting out fires, which is likely why you are given a higher volume of immediate tasks and feeling overwhelmed now.

Aside from working on maximizing your time and stress management (arriving at work rested and healthy), you should approach your supervisor to discuss your workflow. It is in everyone's best interest to maintain your peak competency. Assuming that you are performing at a high level, you might pursue a raise or a promotion, before deciding to leave altogether.

When you approach your supervisor, present this as positive proof of your skills, and be honest about the fact that you are on the verge of not being able to keep up.

Dear Amy: I have two friends that are getting married the same weekend (one on Friday, one on Saturday). I am inherently closer with the Saturday bride (I am a bridesmaid in her wedding, and my fiance is the groom's best man). The Friday bride and I have a history of problems, but I'd still like to attend her wedding.

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