Staying Motivated When Overwhelmed: A Guide for Operations Professionals

Let's cut to the chase: As an operations professional, your brain is uniquely wired. Whether you're running your own business, supporting a business in a full time capacity, or somewhere in between, the challenges of staying on track amidst a sea of tasks can feel intense. You, dear operator, reverse engineer everything. You see the big picture by breaking it down into smaller, digestible chunks. It's your superpower, but it can also be your kryptonite if not managed correctly.

1. Understand Your Brain's Wiring: 

Every project, no matter its size or scope, is a puzzle you're eager to solve. Your brain dissects it, creating mini milestones and compartmentalizing information. It’s automatic. This innate ability, while invaluable, also means you often find yourself juggling a mile-long to-do list. (I know; I’ve been there too!)

2. Redefine Success: 

If you're basing your daily success on how many tasks you tick off that seemingly never-ending list, you're setting yourself up for a world of stress. It's overwhelming, and impossible. Recognize that you won’t clear that list in a day, and that’s okay.

3. Set Realistic Expectations: 

Setting realistic expectations is key when sitting down for work each day. Pick 1-3 tasks that you will complete today and give them your focus. Tomorrow, pick another set of three. Over time, this approach yields far greater results than flitting between fifty tasks and completing none. And if you get more than three things done in one day, you get an extra pat on the back!

4. Boundaries Are Your Best Friend: 

If you’ve been following me for any amount of time, you know how important boundaries are. Whether it's turning off email notifications during deep work sessions, setting specific 'meeting-free' blocks in your day, or just getting used to saying no to projects and tasks that are outside the scope of your role, make sure you aren’t mismanaging (or misallocating) your precious time.

5. Rest Isn’t a Luxury – It’s a Necessity: 

Listen closely: You have to rest. Not only when you're on the brink of burnout, but consistently. It could be a ten-minute walk, a power nap, reading to your kids, or a weekend getaway. Disconnect, breathe, and regroup. Your tasks aren’t going anywhere, and you'll tackle them with renewed vigor post-break.

6. Don't Shoulder It All Alone: 

You're strong, but you're not invincible. When the weight of your responsibilities feels crushing, lean on someone. It could be a fellow operator (like in our free Facebook group!), a biz bestie, a partner, or a close friend. Discuss, vent, brainstorm. Sometimes, the mere act of articulation can lighten the load.

7. Time for a Mental Download: 

If you find yourself stuck in a loop of inertia, it's probably time for a “download.” Jot down every task, concern, or idea swirling in your mind. Visualizing it can be cathartic and provides clarity on what's achievable within a given timeframe.

Being an operator can feel really challenging sometimes but your unique mindset is a gift. Treat it that way! By setting realistic expectations, holding boundaries, resting, and seeking support, you can navigate the whirlwind of tasks with poise and efficiency. 

Remember: You've got this, but you don't have to go at it alone.

Listen in to the episode where I talk more about this question:

To learn more and to connect with other like-minded operators, I invite you to join our free Facebook group or find out more about becoming a Director of Operations. Together, we'll empower you to create the business and legacy you've always dreamed of.