The time-wasting allure of “comfort tasks”
I can happily spend hours tinkering away at a slide deck. I end up with a nice slide deck, but it’s rarely the best use of my time.
As we navigate the corridors of our professional lives, certain tasks often become familiar landmarks. This work can range from playing with spreadsheets to clearing out email inboxes or even attending routine meetings.
While they provide a reassuring sense of accomplishment, they may not always align with our primary roles, especially as we climb the corporate ladder.
What are "comfort tasks"?
Sometimes, ambiguous and stressful work can feel like too much. Comfort tasks are work we gravitate toward at such times, because:
We know how to do them.
They offer immediate satisfaction.
They create the illusion of productivity.
Imagine a senior leader who was once a project manager. They might find solace in micromanaging project timelines, even though their current role requires them to set the strategic vision.
Why Comfort Tasks are a Trap for Leaders
1. Diminishing Returns
As leaders ascend from functional roles, the value they bring is in strategic thinking, mentoring, and decision-making. Focusing on operational tasks might bring momentary pleasure but detracts from high-impact activities.
2. Stifling Growth
Leaders who engage in too many comfort tasks often bypass opportunities to learn and grow in their new roles. This stunts not only their professional growth but also the growth of their team members who are capable of taking on these tasks.
3. Creating Bottlenecks
If a leader is too involved in day-to-day tasks, they become a bottleneck, slowing down processes and decision-making for the entire team.
Overcoming the Lure of Comfort Tasks
Being honest with yourself is the place to start.
Some comfort is ok. If a few minutes doing some simpler work you find soothing gives you enough of a re-set to get back into what you’re actually being paid to do… great! But when it’s getting in the way, here are some ideas for what to do instead…
1. Time Audit
Periodically assess how you spend your time. Which tasks align with your primary accountabilities? Which don't? Streamline your schedule accordingly.
2. Delegate More
The art of delegation is crucial. Empower team members to take over tasks you once held dear. It provides them with growth opportunities and frees up your time.
3. Seek Feedback
Encourage your peers and team to provide feedback. They often notice if you're diving too deep into the weeds.
4. Focus on Big-Picture Thinking
Schedule regular intervals for strategic thinking. Whether it's setting aside an hour each day or a full day each month, prioritise high-level planning.
5. Find Another Way to Chill Out
Pay attention to the situations that lead you to dive into comfort tasks. What are the indicators you’re feeling overwhelmed? Practice noticing them earlier, and have a plan to divert yourself to a more constructive way to re-set. Take a short (or long) break, talk with a friend, go for a walk – whatever works for you.
While comfort tasks offer a temporary refuge from the uncertainties and challenges of leadership, senior leaders must recognise the pitfalls. By shifting focus from the soothing to the impactful, senior leaders can truly steer their organisations toward success.
Until next week,
Take care of yourself and others,
Madeleine
PS If you’d like to work with me as you work on spending your time doing more of what matters, let me know and please share with anyone you think may benefit.
I help accomplished professionals untangle difficult career questions so they can thrive in work and life.
1. Want to find out more? Send me a note and let me know.
2. Feeling unfulfilled, overworked or unclear about what next? Work with me to identify what is holding you back and make a plan for more powerfully and enjoyably pursuing goals that matter to you. Contact me to find out more.
3. Join my list to receive regular articles and insights, early news about programs and offers, and respect for your inbox.
4. Follow me on LinkedIn to stay connected.
5. Prefer to talk? Choose a time and it will drop right into my schedule.
Click below to share this on your socials…