I want to encourage you to do a simple assignment:
Make a list of all of the things you do in a day (or week) at work – both big and small.
This is NOT just your to-do list. Your to-do lists do not normally include things like unexpected phone calls or emails, putting out fires, encouraging colleagues, answering questions, etc.
Seeing every little thing you do laid out like this lets you:
- See if you are doing way too much and where you could scale back or delegate
- Compare your to-do list (or job description) with what you actually do
- Realize how much knowledge and expertise you actually have
- Prepare for meetings with your boss or board (especially yearly reviews or requests for raises or staff/budget increases)
This list will help you prevent burnout, manage expectations, combat imposter syndrome, and realize your worth.
You can keep your list on your computer, in a journal, on sticky notes, on a white board, or just a piece of paper on your desk.
Once you’ve started making your list, let us know what surprised you and what insights you’ve gained.
