Summary

Accepting that work is ongoing, rather than striving for an unattainable "done," is a key mindset shift leadership coaching can facilitate for improved well-being.

‘Work never ends’ was a hard lesson to learn, but ultimately helped me keep sane in my corporate days.

Years ago, I found myself working weekends. Monday to Friday wasn’t enough to handle all tasks and my inbox was overflowing.

But I got to the point where I knew something had to change. I still don’t believe you should have to work weekends to manage your job.

The problem was not one of too much work, or bad work systems, but raone my own unrealistic expectations.

I felt compelled to get everything done, work down my to-do list and get my inbox to zero.

And that’s where I was wrong. In believing I needed to achieve this in order to be successful.

On one of those weekends, while working and trying to listen to a podcast at the same time (no way you can multitask), one phrase struck me: “The work never ends”.

That simple realisation brought immediate relief. It dawned on me that I would never truly finish my to-do list or empty my inbox. The work would always be there.

It sounds simple, but I know it’s not easy for many people to accept. Perhaps this insight can help you too.