Summarize:

One of the first ways that you can begin to manage an issue that crops up in your life is to set a schedule and follow it diligently.  You may feel that things are in disarray, but a schedule and routine will help to restore order into your life.  You may be unsure of the outcome of the crisis, but at least you can find some comfort in establishing a pattern. Consider either using an online calendar to document all of your appointments and meetings or using a paper calendar. During this time, you may need a bit of a respite from work or just need more support from your coworkers in general.  Communicate with your team about this.  You do not need to get into the nitty-gritty details of the issue unless it is work-related, but you should share enough so that they understand your need to step back a bit. You might say something like “I wanted to let you all know that I am dealing with some issues at home.  I will work to ensure that these issues do not affect my work, but I may need a bit of extra support during this time.” If you are in the position to, delegate some tasks to others.  If you are feeling overwhelmed at work, assign some of your tasks to coworkers or interns.  If you have a subordinate or supervisee who is looking for more experience, they will likely be a great resource to you during this time.  Try assigning some basic level tasks to them first to assess how they perform.  If they do well, you can give them assignments that are progressively more difficult until your crisis abates. You might also ask your boss to delegate some of your tasks to others, particularly to those who are your equals in rank in the office. During a time of personal crisis, it is unwise to take on new assignments at work.  Rather than giving yourself more work, focus instead on being a good steward of the work you are currently tasked with. You may want to take a bit of time away from the office.  Getting some space from work can be very helpful in clearing your head and rejuvenating your spirits in the midst of a crisis.  The length of time you stay away will be up to your discretion, but remain mindful that the longer you stay away from work, it may be increasingly more difficult to get back into the routine of things. Check and see how much vacation time you have and make a decision based on that.  Perhaps you will want to take no more than half of that time. During a time of personal crisis, you will need to rely on your friends and family.  Communicate with them regularly and keep them updated, especially if the crisis will affect them.  Have conversations about how to move forward as well as about how they can help you during this time. You might say something like “I know that I’ve told you about my health issues, but I wanted to let you know that things have gotten a bit worse.  I’ve been to the doctor a few times and may have to have surgery.  But I want you to know that I will keep you updated at every step.” During a time of crisis, you may need to be a bit selfish at times.  Remember it is necessary to maintain healthy boundaries, and saying no is often a part of that. For example, if you always host an annual cookout for Memorial Day but are not feeling up to it this year, remind yourself that it is okay to say no. Suggest to friends or family members that they take over the task instead, if they are willing and able. Your family may be undergoing this crisis with you.  Show great empathy and care for them during this time.  Though you should be taking care of yourself, don’t forget the people who love you and who you love.  Do little acts of kindness for them and don’t neglect your responsibilities to them, as much as is possible. For instance, if you have children, they still rely on you and will need you.  Remain as present as possible by being involved in their school, bedtime rituals, etc. This personal crisis may be one of the most difficult situations that you have ever encountered.  However, you must accept it as reality.  Don’t stop yourself from crying and feeling the range of emotions that you are experiencing; research shows that holding back tears can actually be more harmful in the long run.  Don’t wallow in the situation, either.  Instead, begin thinking about taking action to improve your circumstances. Schedule time every day to grieve, and try to limit your grief to those specific times.  Many counselors suggest this so that their patients do not get caught up in endless sessions of sadness.
Set a schedule. Talk to your boss and coworkers. Delegate, if possible. Don’t take on new projects. Consider taking some time off. Talk to your family and friends. Learn to say no. Be kind. Accept and grieve the situation.