Dear Anne Marie: I'm just not getting as much done as I used to. I don't think my workload has increased; it's just that it's taking me more time to do everything. Is something wrong with me?
    —Megan J.

Dear Megan: Your questions suggest that you are a very self-aware person. You are aware that your previous level of productivity does not match your current level. You have taken the time to reflect on why this is so. You maintain your integrity by being honest and by resisting the urge to fabricate a reason or to blame. You are choosing instead to face this issue with courage.

Managing The Moment

The "Moment to Manage" is your feeling of dread. With no obvious reason at hand to explain the drop in productivity you begin to question yourself. You think you are at fault, but don't know why, leaving you unable to fix the problem. A feeling of dread results as you attempt to confront the unknown with little or no information to help you. Take a time out from the dread to best tackle this issue.

The Game Plan

First, objectively assess your workload. While it may be true that your workload has not increased, perhaps it was too much to begin with. It is reasonable to ask yourself to handle an extra heavy workload for short periods of time, but not indefinitely. Is it possible that your current level of productivity is right on target?

Second, evaluate your working conditions. What is going on at work? Has your company recently downsized? Are people generally happy and motivated or are the predominant feelings those of overwhelm and stress? The environment at work impacts your ability to perform and stress does lower productivity.

Third, identify any personal issues that are worrying you. It is a myth that we can separate our personal life from our professional life. Aging parents, sick children and difficult marriages are upsetting and do come to work with us. As we dwell on these issues our productivity goes down. Good self-care habits are essential for taking some of the sting out of difficult issues. The number one self-care activity is exercise. Make daily exercise your highest priority.

Fourth, visit your physician and rule out depression. Major depression is the leading cause of disability in the United States, affecting almost 10 million people each year. Depression reduces productivity and lowers overall quality of life. Depression is treatable, so contact your physician today.

Finally, taking action alleviates dread. Remember that the feeling of dread will increase if you do nothing and decrease if you take actions on your own behalf.