The Heat is On

James knows that preparing the annual reports is intense. He knows that the leadership requests another aspect of the data each year.

What can James do to prepare for that season?

James knows the high intensity of the season is inevitable. Based on previous requests, he has a good idea of what the leadership wants to see.

James takes the initiative and proactively takes steps early each year to identify and track data for the next year’s reports. If it is a new request, he asks himself, “Could this data be requested again?” If the answer is yes, James develops a way to track the data now. If leadership wants to review the data throughout the year, the data is readily available.

James also recognizes that he must be physically and mentally ready. He knows that his personal wellbeing must be healthy to handle the high pressure for the duration of the project. He strategically plans to take some time off before the project to rest and refresh.

How do you respond when the pressure is high?

Connections Challenge: Like James, we can take steps to prepare for intense seasons. You may be about to enter or are already in a time of high pressure. What steps can you take now to decrease burnout and care for your wellbeing? If you just completed such a time, what lessons did you learn? What steps can you take to prepare for the next season?