Leading a startup feels like juggling and there's a simple but powerful lesson to learn from successful jugglers... it's the art of building a rhythm... one that works for you.
Basic juggling rhythm involves using both hands in an alternate throwing and catching movement. Jugglers use a simple phrase like: right-left-right-catch-right-left-right-catch or a similar combination while training to build their routine. The 'right-left' is the hand they are using to throw while the 'catch' happens on the opposite hand of the last throw.
As a startup leader, I found that to become successful at juggling multiple challenges, issues, tasks, etc. I needed to focus on building a rhythm of alternating 'catch and throw' actions. Here's my system:
Step 1:
I evaluate what's on my plate and ask myself: Can I solve or address this (make progress on this)? If yes, I classify it as a 'catch', if not, it's a 'throw'.
Step 2:
For all items classified as a 'catch', I prioritize them from 1 to 6. I start working on no. 1 till it's solved or I can no longer make any progress on it. Then, I move to 2, 3, and so on. If I have more than 6 (rarely), I classify anything after 6 as a 'throw' as most times I'm barely able to get to 6 by the end of work that day. I reevaluate and create a fresh list every night before leaving work.
Step 3:
For all items that I classify as a 'throw', I either delegate, delay (set a fresh deadline) or drop. This is important to do every day as it helps build your rhythm and also makes you aware of your capacity and limitations. Your rhythm will tell you what you need to delegate even before it comes on your table (capacity) and what needs to be dropped without delay (limitations). Your efficiency will grow as your rhythm improves.
Do this simple 3-steps process and you'll find your rhythm, one that allows you to perform at your peak on most days. Good luck.
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