If you work for a hands-off manager who doesn’t give you a ton of guidance, it falls on you to set priorities for your work. You can focus on the right things by asking yourself two questions: “What is my highest contribution?” Consider the organization’s needs and your unique strengths, experience, and capabilities. But don’t only focus on what you’re good at. Also ask yourself: “What am I passionate about?” Think about the projects and tasks you find most inspiring and where you’re able to make the most impact. Focusing your efforts there will motivate you to put in extra effort. The goal is to prioritize those activities and initiatives that show up on both your high-contribution and high-passion lists, while delegating or saying no to the daily churn of low-value and low-energy-producing activities, emails, and meetings.
Adapted from "How to Prioritize Your Work When Your Manager Doesn't," by Amy Jen Su
