When we get busy, our backlog of work inevitably grows. Then we narrow it back down during the slower times. However, sometimes our backlog gets out of control.

Now let’s be clear: it is perfectly acceptable to have a long list of long-term goals and dreams.

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When I talk about a backlog, I am talking about things that need to be completed in the next few weeks to months. When these short to mid-term deadlines pile up, our backlog becomes a problem.

Our backlog is too big when:

1)      Our work just isn’t as good: A big backlog prevents us from completing a task as well as we would like. We simply run out of time to add the finishing touches.

2)      We miss deadlines: A big backlog inhibits us from following-through on our commitments. Even when we are working extra-long hours, we can miss deadlines. This can leave other people scrambling and frustrated. Our professional reputation as a reliable and committed team member takes a hit.

3)      Work turns into drudgery: In an ideal world, we would all love what we do and look forward to our challenges each day. Unfortunately, this is rare among professionals. Even if you fundamentally like what you do, it is painful to constantly face a big backlog. Older work becomes stale and uninspiring really quickly.

4)      Lost opportunities: When we are bogged down in the past, we cannot jump on new, exciting opportunities. This leads to frustration and resentment as we forego stuff that we would like to do in favor of stuff that we have to do.

5)      Stress and apathy: We often feel drained, frustrated and guilty when we have a big backlog. This diminishes our ability to focus on our current task and stay productive. And when people feel so far behind, they often give up trying. They become immobilized and their progress grinds to a halt.

No doubt about it, having a big backlog is not ideal.

On the other hand, a little bit of a backlog is to be expected. Stay tuned for my next blog post with thoughts about how big a backlog should be.