5 Tips On How Women in Finance Actually Get Stuff Done (Without Losing It)

Working in finance sometimes feels like juggling flaming spreadsheets while sprinting to a client meeting. Deadlines pile up, numbers multiply, and emails… well, they seem to breed like rabbits. (If inbox zero exists, I’ve never met her.)

But here’s the kicker: being “busy” is not the same as being productive. If it were, most of us would have Nobel Prizes by now. What really matters is getting things done—and done without turning into a caffeine-fueled spreadsheet zombie.

So, how do women in finance pull it off? Here are the survival strategies.

1. Prioritize like Beyoncé drops an album

Some tasks deserve the spotlight right now, others can wait their turn. The Eisenhower Matrix helps sort it out—but let’s be real, sometimes it’s just deciding which fire to put out first. Either way: focus on what moves the needle, not what just makes you look “busy.”

2. Batch it, don’t patch it

Jumping from balance sheets to emails to client decks is like trying to cook three dinners at once—you’ll just end up hungry and stressed. Instead, batch similar tasks. One solid block for emails, another for reports, and then a whole session for “why won’t this Excel formula work” therapy.

3. Say no, like a boss

Ladies, repeat after me: “No is a complete sentence.” Every “yes” is also a “no” to something else—like sleep, sanity, or that yoga class you’ve been rescheduling since March. Protect your calendar like it’s the last piece of chocolate.

4. Make tools your BFFs

Whether it’s Trello, Asana, or a neon sticky note collection that would make a stationery shop jealous, tools help. Personally, I believe a color-coded spreadsheet can solve 80% of life’s problems. (The other 20%? Coffee.)

5. Don’t forget you’re human

Finance is about numbers, yes—but you’re not a robot. Hydrate, stretch, go outside, breathe. Trust me: a five-minute walk beats a fifth espresso. (Okay, maybe have both, but in that order.)

Final thought

Getting things done in finance isn’t about superhero hours or martyr-level multitasking. It’s about working smarter, setting boundaries, and keeping your sense of humor intact.

Because let’s face it: nothing feels better than crossing the last thing off your list, closing the laptop, and celebrating with a well-deserved glass of Sangria. Or two. 🍷