The Over-Scheduled Woman

“Much like overstuffed closets, women’s schedules are full of activities that no longer fit,” says Elizabeth Saunders, founder of ScheduleMakeover.com. Seems most of us are trying to do it all, and overextending ourselves can lead to burnout, stress or giving less than our best.

“The root cause of most guilt, frustration, and being overwhelmed is unrealistic expectations of ourselves,” says Saunders. She adds that we hold onto our schedules for the same reasons we keep uncomfortably tight jeans – feelings of guilt.

While multitasking is essential in today’s work environment, studies show it takes up to one-third more time than doing tasks individually.

How to make your schedule fit your life?

Experts say to start by creating a master schedule with a list of all time-consuming activities you complete in a week. Others remind women to prioritize where their energy is best suited on any given day and allow ourselves to decline offers or requests to help out with extra tasks at work.

If it’s your to-do list that needs a re-haul, Unclutterer suggests being realistic, making scheduled tasks with deadlines a higher priority and reviewing often to make necessary changes.

The New York Times looks at the use of technology to better balance schedules. Smartphone apps like Bento and computer programs like Day-Timer, an electronic daily planner, can help manage your to-do list.

Bonus PINK Link: Find out how the CIO of a billion-dollar healthcare company manages her time effectively in our online exclusive.

By Brittani Banks

“All great achievements require time.” Maya Angelou