Episode 538: How to Stay in Control of Multiple Projects

Managing multiple projects requires a transition from abstract mindsets to concrete, repeatable practices that reduce cognitive load and prevent burnout. Elizabeth Harrin, author of *Managing Multiple Projects*, emphasizes the importance of creating personal scaffolding—such as standardized checklists, templates for recurring tasks like month-end accounting, and streamlined reporting—to navigate high-pressure environments. Effective resource management involves visualizing competing demands through grids or mind maps to identify bottlenecks and negotiate priorities with stakeholders. Rather than viewing governance as an administrative burden, project managers should leverage it as a support system for decision-making and risk mitigation. Ultimately, maintaining control in a multi-project context relies on mapping out a personal portfolio of all responsibilities to gain clarity, allowing for more intentional prioritization and sustainable delivery.