Alex is super overwhelmed at work—coaching call transcript

Setting: A coaching session between Alex, a mid-level manager at a tech company, and their coach.

Alex: [sighing heavily] I don’t even know where to begin. I’m feeling completely overwhelmed at work. There are so many projects on my plate, and I don’t feel like I’m making any real progress. It’s just too much!

Coach: I hear you. It sounds like you’re feeling a lot of pressure right now. Can you tell me more about what’s overwhelming you? What specific projects or tasks are weighing on you?

Alex: Well, I have three major projects that are all due within the next month. Plus, I’m trying to support my team members, and I have back-to-back meetings every day. I feel like I’m constantly reacting to what’s thrown at me instead of being proactive.

Coach: That sounds really challenging. It’s understandable to feel stressed when you’re juggling so many responsibilities. Let’s take a step back. What’s the most important goal for you to focus on right now? If you had to pick just one project or task to prioritize, which would it be?

Alex: I think it would have to be the product launch. It’s crucial for our team, and I know it’s what my boss is expecting from me. But then I worry about neglecting the other projects if I focus too much on this one.

Coach: Focusing on the product launch makes sense, especially given its importance. What if we developed a plan to help you manage your time and energy so you can give that project the attention it needs while still keeping an eye on the others?

Alex: That would be great, but I’m just not sure how to fit everything in.

Coach: Let’s break it down. First, how much time do you think you need to dedicate each week to the product launch to feel confident about it?

Alex: I’d say at least 10 hours. But where am I going to find that time?

Coach: Good question! Let’s take a look at your current schedule. Can you share what your week typically looks like, including meetings and tasks?

Alex: Sure. I have meetings scheduled every day from 9 AM to 12 PM, and then I usually have other tasks and emails to catch up on in the afternoons. But I rarely have time to actually work on projects.

Coach: It seems like your mornings are packed with meetings. How do you feel about reallocating some of your afternoon time to block out a couple of hours specifically for the product launch?

Alex: That might work, but I still have those other projects to consider. I can’t ignore them entirely.

Coach: Absolutely, we’ll want to strike a balance. What if you allocate two hours each afternoon for focused work on the product launch, and then dedicate one hour to each of the other projects? This way, you’re giving each area some attention without feeling overwhelmed.

Alex: That sounds more manageable. I can also set specific goals for each of those hours to ensure I stay on track.

Coach: Exactly! It’s all about creating that structure. What are the specific goals you want to achieve during those dedicated hours for the product launch this week?

Alex: I want to finalize the marketing strategy and prepare for the presentation to the leadership team.

Coach: Great! So we have a plan: two hours each afternoon for the product launch, with specific goals to finalize the marketing strategy and prepare for the presentation. Now, what will you do if you find yourself getting overwhelmed again?

Alex: I guess I could reach out to you for a quick check-in or just take a break to clear my head. It would help to have that option.

Coach: Absolutely. Remember, it’s important to prioritize your well-being. Regular check-ins can help you stay grounded and focused. How do you feel about this plan moving forward?

Alex: I feel a lot better, actually. Having a clear plan gives me a sense of control.

Coach: Glad to hear that. Let’s check in next week to review your progress and adjust the plan as needed.