Dear Anne Marie: I'm bored. I don't have enough to do. The last time I talked to my boss about being underutilized, he brushed it off with, "You just get through everything quickly." So, I guess I either slow down or find another job, neither of which sounds too appealing to me. I really love my job when I'm busy. How can I solve this problem without changing jobs?
   — Janice G.

Dear Janice: You are blessed with an endless supply of energy and an insatiable need to achieve. You feel driven to be productive all day, every day. Others marvel at how hard you work and how much you accomplish. You are the person they turn to when extra work needs to be done and deadlines are looming.

Managing The Moment

The "Moment to Manage" is your feeling of defeat. Your boss is pressuring you to adapt to a slower pace, implying that you are the problem. Resist the temptation to accept the status quo and "slow down". Trying to change your need to be busy is like trying to change the color of your skin—you can't! It is best to find a solution that honors the integrity of your natural talents and values.

The Game Plan

First, keep track of your time. It is easy for your boss to ignore you when you simply tell him you are not busy enough, but facts on paper are harder to ignore. Maintain accurate records of your work and include time spent doing nothing. Meet with your boss and show him your available time and ask for more work.

Second, offer to help other people in your office. If keeping busy is your goal then it shouldn't be too hard to find someone who needs support. Let the people you work with know you are available and offer them your assistance.

Third, look at all your options. If you work for a large company you might be able to transfer to another department. By keeping your eyes and ears open you will be ready to respond when an opportunity presents itself.

Fourth, keep an open mind. You would like to solve this problem without changing jobs, but that might not be possible. By investigating job prospects now, while you are still relatively content, you will bring a cooler, smarter perspective to the issue.

Finally, stay true to yourself. You know you need to be busy to feel satisfied and fulfilled. By accepting yourself for who you are you will be secure enough to stand firm when other people pressure you to "slow down" and conform.