First Things FIrst

One of Steven Covey's comments that I like best is that "you have to keep first things first".  What I find is that most people struggle with what that looks like.  Deadlines are similar, importance is ill-defined, and the result is that we have a tendency to just do what we can, without working on most critical tasks first.  

Here are some tips:

1. Start by making sure each task has a deadline.  If you are given one by someone else, then use that.  If not, then set a deadline, one that is realistic, and work within that boundary.
2. Now, look at all the factors that make up importance.  Some of the most common are: who asked, who is affected, the impact of the project, cost, safety, how many are impacted, relevance to mission, and so on, based on your job and your company's mission.
3. Using these qualifiers, give the task/project a rank, on a 1 - 10 scale. 
4. Now, by using the deadline and the importance ranking, you can make an educated decision on what comes first.

Do they sometimes still look the same?  Sure.  It's time to go ask the stakeholder or your manager what is most important.  Tip- don't do that without a thorough examination yourself.

The largest generation, and the difficulties therewith...

If you are a Millenial, or work with, manage or deal with a Millenial, you probably have noticed a disconnect.  Here is a video that will help.  It is worth the watch.
Simon Sinek on Millenials