What can I do at work to help someone when time disappears when they are trying to get things done?

Short answer

Use visible milestones and realistic handovers rather than assuming everyone experiences time the same way.

What this can look like

A complex project can feel on track until a handover, meeting or unseen dependency makes the next date suddenly close.

Why it can happen

Time can disappear inside complex work, meetings and interruptions. Shared calendars, stage deadlines and clear transition cues help the whole team coordinate.

What might help

Use shared stage dates, named handovers and visible progress points. Raise timing risks early rather than relying on last-minute pushes.

What the research helps explain

Executive-function research describes attention, working memory and flexibility as limited, context-sensitive processes. Australian work guidance recognises that cognitive demands, time pressure, role clarity, support and control can shape whether work is manageable.

What can vary

Do not infer a diagnosis, capability level or private health information from a work pattern. Ask about the task conditions, provide equitable options and handle performance concerns fairly.

For this situation

For you, set cues for the next action or handover, not only the final deadline.

More info and original sources

Poko summarises the relevance of public original sources and links out for anyone who wants to read more.

• Executive Functions — Explains attention, working memory and flexibility in goal-directed tasks.
• Job demands — Australian guidance on cognitive demands, role clarity, workload, control and support.