Looking back at my career I must confess that I started as some kind of an accidental manager.

I just was good at what I did – law at that time – and then a few people in the organization thought that I would be a good manager. Just like that. I never had an interview. I never wrote a letter showing interest.

No, just like that.

One day a colleague, next day the manager.

Don’t get me wrong. I loved it. I felt honored and ready to give it my best. And I did.

I thought that this thought process – “Good at law, well why don’t you manage the Law and Land department” – was an exception. But what has surprised me over the years is that I can count on one hand the number of managers I’ve coached or trained who started off with a fine-tuned plan for becoming a manager.

Most first-time managers were promoted to a management position because specific professional skills were recognized, like engineering, law, finances, customer service, product development etc.

And before you know it, you’re the manager – or rather, you have a lot of chaos that somehow you need to manage.

And of course this new position is exciting! It’s seen as a major career step. You’re proud, your partner is proud, and your parents are proud.

But there is also an overwhelming and chaotic side. The other side of being the manager shows up in thoughts like, “What was I thinking? “Why did I say yes?”

There are some challenges.

Namely things like engaging people, having crucial conversations, enrolling people in change, delegating — or anything involving an employee for that matter.

Appointments, meetings, more meetings, self-doubt, boss’ expectations, a vision or at least a plan, all come to mind as well.

In fact, the core question of a new manager is:

How do I lead this department into greatness without burning myself out?

Ah. Yes.

You mean that’s possible?

Although your story into management might be different than my story, the following tips have showed to be helpful for my clients new in management who signed up for my multi-month, mentor program for emerging leaders.

[note: I share here five simple ones]

Let’s have a look at the tips:

1. Know your priorities
   Prioritize your To-do’s. Prioritize them on your own. Then talk with your own manager about them.

2. Show up as a leader
   You need to show up as a leader day in day out. Make working on your confidence as a manager one of your priorities.

3. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself.
   Accept sooner than later that leadership is a life long journey. There is no arrival.

4. Let go of your pet projects.
   Yes, I know you love certain projects. And you’re super good at them. Now let someone else take over. Delegate.

5. Lunch, Lunch, Lunch
   Take care of yourself. Sleep enough and don’t skip lunch.

And of course these 5 tips will guide you through more days than just the first 90!