Do you find yourself chasing things that should happen automatically? Over-checking work that should already be checked? Or, maybe just being the only person who “knows how this really works”?
It’s all part of being a PM, right? Normal day-to-day work. You get dragged along thinking, “If I don’t do this, things just fall apart”, and over time it becomes normal.
But it shouldn’t need to be like this. Take some time to think about where you’re compensating for a missing system or process with your own attention.
We all have a finite amount of attention, so we should apply it where it matters: in the areas that deliver value and drive delivery.
Systems and processes are repeatable and reliable when they’re designed and implemented effectively. Let them take the strain, not you. You’re too valuable.
Below are three common forms of compensation – places where you may be doing things that should happen automatically:
1. Memory Instead of Process (If it only exists in someone’s head, it isn’t a process)
- Remembering steps
- Remembering who needs what
- Remembering deadlines that aren’t visible anywhere
2. Checking Instead of Trust
- Re-reading emails
- Double-checking deliverables
- Quietly reviewing work before it goes out
3. Chasing Instead of Flow
- Following up
- Nudging
- Asking, “Have you seen my last email?”
When systems are weak, attention fills the gap.
And when your attention is stretched, your quality and judgement suffer.
The goal isn’t to care less, it’s to work smarter.
Putting strong systems in place will help protect your attention so you can use it where it actually adds value.
So ask yourself this:
What would break first if you stopped paying attention? And why?
That’s the place to start.
