With all of tasks Finance pros are asked to juggle on a daily basis, it can seem impossible to get everything done on time.
Luckily, there are ways to make even the most heavy workloads easier to handle.
Following the WADE formula, a strategy created by time-management expert Julie Morgenstern, will keep you on track, regardless of how much work gets dumped on your plate.
So use this four-step strategy – and pass it along to your co-workers.
1. Write it down
Find a method a that works for you – iPhone, calendar, planner, etc. – and write down all of the tasks you have to complete in one central location
That way you can refer to the list whenever you’re unsure what comes next.
2. Add it up
Once you’ve compiled the to-do list, make an estimate on how long it’ll take you to get everything done.
To make your estimates more accurate, break down the larger projects in smaller tasks.
3. Decide
Sometimes it’s impossible to get everything on the list done in a single day (or even a week).
When you’ve got an especially long list, decide which tasks are absolutely critical and make sure to get them done first.
4. Execute your plan
Even the most careful planning is wasted, if the plan isn’t executed accordingly.
Once you know what you have to do, limit any distractions and go out and do it.