Fashion
How to Deal with an Unreasonable Workload
This post may contain affiliate links and Corporette® may earn commissions for purchases made through links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Something I’ve noticed coming up in the comments a lot frequently: readers’ companies are understaffed, leaving them an unreasonable workload. Whether their teams are understaffed due to layoffs, DOGE, companies reshuffling, or more seems irrelevant — the point is that people are left with more work than they agreed to when they took the position. So let’s discuss — what are your best tips on how to manage an unreasonable workload? I have a few ideas to share…
In the past, we’ve discussed how to say no at work, signs you’re burning out (and how to battle burnout), how to deal with difficult bosses, how to set workplace boundaries (even if you’re highly paid), when to look for a new job, how to ask for help at work, and our best tips on managing up and managing your task list at work. We’ve also talked about how to handle a chatty boss, a micromanager boss, and an incompetent boss.
How to Manage an Unreasonable Workload
1. Don’t Reinvent the Wheel
If you’re dealing with something your office has produced before, like a conference, or a working paper, how much of the previous work product can you lift entirely? Sure, in a perfect world you’d put your own, unique spin on it — but if you’re slammed and the project is 90% done because of previous work, just focus on a really good update.
Similarly, if coworkers are in the same position, now is a great time to collaborate. Are there any ways you can better optimize the workflow, such as making a shared template that everyone can update and use?
(I hate to say it but AI can be helpful with soft writing tasks, like bridge paragraphs or outlines. Never, ever rely on it for numbers, facts, or citations — it’s even been caught hallucinating cases, law review articles, and scientific journal articles. Know your office’s policy on use of AI, though!)
2. Clarify Priorities
As we discussed in our conversation on managing up, this is partly a communications issue — you need to be 100% clear on what your boss’s top priorities are. Sure, they may say “everything!,” but odds are good they have a few things floating to the tippy top of the list.
One approach: sit down with your boss to discuss projected timelines, what you’re delegating or managing, and generally show the lay of the land. If you’re in a billable environment, ask how many hours you can bill to projects that are (in your mind) lower on the list — if it’s a low number then I’d take that as a sign that it isn’t very important to your boss.
If you worry that your boss will say something snarky like “you’re old enough to manage your own workload” (thaaaanks), then try to consider it from a higher level: what will make your boss look best (or worst) if they don’t have it? What will be the best boon to your resume if it’s done well, and what won’t have too many consequences if you’re only giving it your B-level effort?
3. Suggest Adjustments and Solutions
No one likes a whiner, unfortunately. If you’re speaking to your boss about it, come in with a clear game plan. What can be delegated and to whom? How will you supervise them? What can be pushed or done partially… for now?
4. Insist on Boundaries
We’ve talked a lot about work/life boundaries over the years. Can you give yourself some “dark hours” in the evening or on weekend, where you don’t check (or at least don’t send replies) until later? Can you give yourself some days (or afternoons?) where you refuse to attend meetings so you can get work done?
Of course, you have to be reasonable. As one reader noted in our discussion on reasonable boundaries when you’re highly paid:
Yeah, you can draw and have to draw boundaries regardless of where you work, but in Big Law those boundaries are ‘I won’t answer 3 am emails immediately’ not ‘I only work 40 hours/week.’
Another reader spoke from the perspective of inside counsel:
If I’m working into the evenings on a deal and am paying expensive outside counsel, I expect them to be there with me (metaphorically).
I do not expect that if I send a random late-night email when I’m digging out of my inbox, that I get an immediate reply!
I think it’s worth noting that there can be a huge divide between generations here, so keep that in mind if you are working with people of different generations.
Another boundary to consider: only working on a certain project for a set amount of time, as decided by you. How far can you get the project in that time period? For some projects (and let’s face it, some personalities!), work expands to fill the space allotted — so limit the space allotted.
5. Identify Bottlenecks
Are you a perfectionist? Are you working with one, either as a supervisor or as a subordinate? There are different strategies for working with people. For example, if one of your subordinates could handle more work than they are getting done, one strategy would be to give stricter deadlines. Of course, don’t be a jerk about it — they should be reasonable deadlines, and they shouldn’t be during holiday weekends or whatnot unless it’s a true emergency.
Other potential bottlenecks: do certain people just love to talk during meetings? I’ve seen different shades of this — some people really love to hear the sounds of their own voices. I’ve also seen some people who have a pet project, issue, or concern and they bring it up every single meeting, even if it’s already been addressed… consider limiting the scope of meetings (if you’re in charge), or discussing with your boss whether you could sit some meetings out.
(If you are in charge, ask yourself: could this meeting have been an email?)
One more potential bottleneck to mention — the chatty coworker. Do you have a coworker who loves to stop by and complain about how much work they have (or otherwise discuss life, the universe, and everything?) The best approaches I’ve found for dealing with this include a) not being where they expect me to be, namely at my desk — for example, go work in the conference room! … and b) after a few minutes of chitchat, get up from your desk and start walking. Maybe you need to go to the printer! Or the bathroom! Or get a cup of coffee! Whatever it is, get them out of your space.
6. Say no.
Sometimes you just do not have a choice in the matter… but if you do, SAY NO. If you’re at capacity already, use your words to turn it down.
Readers, what are your best tips on how to deal with an unreasonable workload?
Khaite Top (old, similar here), Dries Van Noten Skirt, Alaia Heels, Chanel Necklace, Destree Bag
Spring/Summer ‘26 on the runway was full of styling ideas I loved, from sculptural skirts and expressive texture to layered color and directional tailoring, and these are the looks I wanted to recreate with pieces I’m loving right now.
Power Skirt
The skirt emerges as the centerpiece this season, shaped through bold proportion, saturated color, or tactile finish. Paired with a refined top layer — whether silk, knit, or tailoring — it delivers a look that feels strong, composed, and unmistakably statement-driven.
The Wrapped Detail
Wrapped and knotted elements introduce a more playful approach to styling, with scarves and draped layers tied at the waist or across the body. This detail shifts the look into something more expressive, adding movement and a sense of spontaneity to otherwise polished pieces.
Fringe Movement
Fringe is elongated and layered, bringing constant motion and texture into the silhouette. Whether through a dress or statement detail, it adds energy and a sense of play, with each movement creating depth and visual interest.
Sheer Layering
Transparency is explored through layered construction, with sheer fabrics, lace, and lightweight materials building depth through tone and contrast. Styled in multiples, the effect feels dimensional, expressive, and slightly undone in the most intentional way.
This post may contain affiliate links and Corporette® may earn commissions for purchases made through links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
I’ve always been a fan of green totes like this gorgeous one from Dragon Diffusion — you will be surprised how versatile they are in your wardrobe! You can wear them with neutrals like black, navy, gray, ivory, etc — as well as with colors like pastels and jewel tones. You can even wear it with green, although you have to do it with a bit of intention, but I think it would look great with an olive or a mint if the rest of the outfit were kept fairly sedate.
(Actually, it’s styled with a model wearing a pale olive outfit, so you know it works!)
The tote is 8.25″H x 15″L x 6″ deep,and the handle drop is 6 inches. It’s $554 at Shopbop.com. (You can also find the brand at Bloomingdale’s and DragonDiffusion.com.)
Sales of note for 3/27:
- Nordstrom – Earn a $25 promo card when you buy $150 in gift cards
- Ann Taylor – 40% off one item, plus 30% off your purchase (full price) (suits are included in the sale!)
- Banana Republic Factory – Up to 50% off + extra 20% off
- Bloomingdale’s – Friends & Family, take 25% off. Beauty treats $20 off every $150.
- Boden – 15% off new styles with code
- Brooklinen – 15% off sitewide, plus up to 50% off bundles
- Brooks Brothers – Clearance up to 60% off
- Diane von Furstenberg – Friends & Family, 25% off sale!
- Elie Tahari – Friends and Family, up to 25% off – try code CORPORETTE15 for 15% off.
- Express – 30-70% off everything (Editor pants for $69!)
- J.Crew – 40% off your purchase + 25% off select cashmere
- J.Crew Factory – 40% off everything + extra 50% off clearance
- Loft – Spring bash! 50% off everything
- Macy’s – 25% off already reduced prices + 15% off beauty & fragrance
- M.M.LaFleur – Hop to it sale, 20% off! You can also try code CORPORETTE15 for 15% off
- Mango – 30% off everything
- Shopbop – Lots on sale, up to 60% off
- Splendid – 30% off sitewide
- Talbots – Buy one get one 50% off — on everything!
This post may contain affiliate links and Corporette® may earn commissions for purchases made through links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Our daily workwear reports suggest one piece of work-appropriate attire in a range of prices.
The number of striped tops in my closet is reaching unsustainable levels, but I still can’t stop myself when I see something great. This short-sleeved sweater from Caslon will be perfect for chilly spring mornings.
My spring uniform last year consisted of tops like this paired with midi skirts or trousers, and I’m feeling pretty good about that trend continuing for 2026.
The top is $69.50 at Nordstrom and comes in sizes 1X-4X. It’s also available (in more colors, some on sale) in sizes XS-XXL.
Sales of note for 3/27:
- Nordstrom – Earn a $25 promo card when you buy $150 in gift cards
- Ann Taylor – 40% off one item, plus 30% off your purchase (full price) (suits are included in the sale!)
- Banana Republic Factory – Up to 50% off + extra 20% off
- Bloomingdale’s – Friends & Family, take 25% off. Beauty treats $20 off every $150.
- Boden – 15% off new styles with code
- Brooklinen – 15% off sitewide, plus up to 50% off bundles
- Brooks Brothers – Clearance up to 60% off
- Diane von Furstenberg – Friends & Family, 25% off sale!
- Elie Tahari – Friends and Family, up to 25% off – try code CORPORETTE15 for 15% off.
- Express – 30-70% off everything (Editor pants for $69!)
- J.Crew – 40% off your purchase + 25% off select cashmere
- J.Crew Factory – 40% off everything + extra 50% off clearance
- Loft – Spring bash! 50% off everything
- Macy’s – 25% off already reduced prices + 15% off beauty & fragrance
- M.M.LaFleur – Hop to it sale, 20% off! You can also try code CORPORETTE15 for 15% off
- Mango – 30% off everything
- Shopbop – Lots on sale, up to 60% off
- Splendid – 30% off sitewide
- Talbots – Buy one get one 50% off — on everything!
Staud Jacket (more sizes here), Flore Flore Shirt, Mother Skirt, Valentino Wedges (on sale), Call It By Your Name Bag, Sherman Field & Zoe Chicco Necklaces
Espadrilles carry a sense of place—sun-warmed streets, woven textures underfoot, and that feeling of the season opening up. The braided sole brings natural texture into spring dressing, paired with canvas, raffia, or leather uppers that feel elevated but easy. This season, they come through in refined variations. Mary Jane straps, low wedges, and softly structured flats, alongside details like embroidery, mesh, and saturated color.
There’s an effortlessness to espadrilles that makes them instinctive to wear during the day, styled with crisp cotton pieces, relaxed tailoring, or lightweight knits, bringing effortless pairing to all your spring looks.
Canvas Wedge Sandals
You all loved these sandals in my recent Daily Look. Intricate embroidery, tassel detail, and an elevated wedge shape feel considered yet playful.
Fashion
Monica Steps Out with Husband Anthony “Ant” Wilson at Brandy’s Hollywood Walk of Fame Ceremony in Ivory Feathered LaPointe Silk Blouse and Coordinating Trousers
Monica attended Brandy’s Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony alongside her husband Anthony “Ant” Wilson, wearing an ivory ensemble by LaPointe that combined soft tailoring with textural detail.
Her look featured a silky button-down blouse paired with $1,950 coordinating high-waisted trousers, both accented with feather trim at the cuffs and hem for added dimension.
She layered pearl necklaces around her neckline and carried a statement Chanel pearl strap bag, complementing the neutral palette. Her glam included soft waves, defined brows, and neutral-toned makeup.
Anthony “Ant” Wilson coordinated in a light blue suit styled with a white shirt, pastel tie, and a floral lapel pin, completing the couple’s polished appearance for the occasion honoring Brandy’s milestone moment.
See more pictures below:
📸: IG/Reproduction
Sea NY Dress (worn as top), Dolce & Gabbana Jeans, Le Sun Dial Belt, Dior Bag, Prada (similar here) & Sherman Field Necklaces (sold out similar here), Gianvito Rossi Sandals
Vintage style often comes down to the materials that show up again and again each season. Crochet and open knits, lace and eyelet, cotton voile, and washed denim all carry that familiar, worn-in feel. There’s a mix of structure and softness to it—denim gives shape, while lighter fabrics keep it easy. Details like embroidery, along with accessories in raffia and leather, add another layer while keeping the look balanced. It’s a combination that always comes back, shifting slightly each time but staying rooted in the same textures.
This post may contain affiliate links and Corporette® may earn commissions for purchases made through links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
For busy working women, the suit is often the easiest outfit to throw on in the morning. In general, this feature is not about interview suits for women, which should be as classic and basic as you get — instead, this feature is about the slightly different suit that is fashionable, yet professional. Also: check out our big roundup for the best women’s suits!
You may think you need to save a fabulous outfit like this for July 4, but I say no — I think you can wear it year round!
In winter, I would wear it with navy tights (or, hey, these), I think — you could even add some cowboy boots (maybe these!) for extra oomph. In summer, I think the outfit as pictured looks great, but I’d add a patriotic manicure, patriotic jewelry, or a patriotic scarf.
Obviously, don’t pair the suit with boots in summer, because that would call your professional judgment into question.
You can get the suit at Target and Opposuits. Prefer pants? Check out this suit.
(Psst: Want to see more content from this day in the past? Try this link.)
Sales of note for 3/27:
- Nordstrom – Earn a $25 promo card when you buy $150 in gift cards
- Ann Taylor – 40% off one item, plus 30% off your purchase (full price) (suits are included in the sale!)
- Banana Republic Factory – Up to 50% off + extra 20% off
- Bloomingdale’s – Friends & Family, take 25% off. Beauty treats $20 off every $150.
- Boden – 15% off new styles with code
- Brooklinen – 15% off sitewide, plus up to 50% off bundles
- Brooks Brothers – Clearance up to 60% off
- Diane von Furstenberg – Friends & Family, 25% off sale!
- Elie Tahari – Friends and Family, up to 25% off – try code CORPORETTE15 for 15% off.
- Express – 30-70% off everything (Editor pants for $69!)
- J.Crew – 40% off your purchase + 25% off select cashmere
- J.Crew Factory – 40% off everything + extra 50% off clearance
- Loft – Spring bash! 50% off everything
- Macy’s – 25% off already reduced prices + 15% off beauty & fragrance
- M.M.LaFleur – Hop to it sale, 20% off! You can also try code CORPORETTE15 for 15% off
- Mango – 30% off everything
- Shopbop – Lots on sale, up to 60% off
- Splendid – 30% off sitewide
- Talbots – Buy one get one 50% off — on everything!
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