A sudden workload spike usually means staffing changes, new projects, or unclear boundaries.
Common causes
- Staff shortages
- New priorities
- Poor delegation
- Hidden expectations
1. Staff shortages
You may be covering someone else’s tasks.
Quick fixes:
- Ask which tasks are highest priority
- Clarify deadlines
2. New priorities
Projects shift quickly.
Quick fixes:
- Request a quick check‑in
- Ask what can be paused
3. Poor delegation
Tasks may be landing on you by default.
Quick fixes:
- Politely push back
- Suggest sharing tasks
What to try first
Ask for a priority list — it resets expectations instantly.
When to escalate
If workload becomes unmanageable for more than a week.