I try to do that by picking what is the most urgent first. Then I can move on after that is done!
Lisa, Sounds like you struggle with the challenge of immediacy. For a handful of instructors, procrastination isn't the problem. To your point, the problem is simply slowing down. Sometimes it's good to remind ourselves that new tasks will always be coming into our queue. Taking a break often means approaching these tasks with more energy when you return.
Dr. Melissa Read
I have to prioritize, because of the busy schedule I have. If I would not do this I would forget allot of thinks. Plus it keeps me less stressed and a better productive person.
i am usually a big procrastinator, but with this course i have learned to prioritize... so yes i hope to change.
Nadine, Yes, often times, instructors do experience the positive benefit of reduced stress when their to do lists are in order. Things don't get completed any faster, but they feel like they are more in control of things.
Dr. Melissa Read
Brittany, Excellent to hear. Sounds like you know yourself very well and have a great plan for the future. I'm class this course helped with that!
Dr. Melissa Read
I write a daily to do list at home and at work. I also prioritize my list with the most important tasks first. I always tackle the most important tasks first and then work my way down the list.
Right now I use the task bar in Outlook to manage what I need to do. I also put other important things in there. There really is no prioritization and sometimes things get left behind. I always take care of the important first, but sometimes the other stuff gets lost. I think a working list is the way to go.
I absolutely agree. I always start my "to do" list with those items that are of the utmost importance and urgency. For me, these items always include what needs to prepared or graded for the classroom. My moto is that we want the students to come to class prepared each and every day, then therefore I need to come to class prepared each every day. I need to lead by example. And because of this my mind cannot rest until I accomplish these items. I don't think that I will change the order in which I do things because based on the module I believe that I have a pretty good grasp of prioritizing.
Tracey, Sounds like you have an excellent system in place! Great work. Prioritization is the key to getting things done in an organized way while also making sure that the most important tasks happen on time. At a guess, you are meeting or exceeding your deadlines.
Dr. Melissa Read
Rachel, So true. When we don't have everything down on paper, it's easy for some tasks to get lost altogether. This is why to do lists are so handy. They keep us organized, get our thoughts out of our mind and down on paper instead.
Dr. Melissa Read
I don't procrastinate, my problem is more one of immediacy. I work part time and don't have children at home anymore so managing time isn't difficult.
I do not tend to procrastinate as I don't like the stress of feeling things aren't finished. I also don't want to miss doing something that comes up at the last minute because I've left work unfinished.
I don't believe I'll change the way I currently do things.
Patricia, Immediacy can come with it's own set of challenges - as I'm sure you've observed. When we have a lot of time on our hands, it's tempting to continuously work ahead. This doesn't give us much of a break. Sometimes it's best to take a step back and just enjoy the moment.
Dr. Melissa Read
This module has truely opened my eyes! I find myself typically putting tasks off for another time and accomplishing the "easier" or less time consuming tasks first. I will definitely change the order in which I accomplish these task from now on and focus more on the importance and urgency of the task at hand. I feel this is really going to help me manage everyday stress both in and out of the classroom!
Bobbi, So glad to hear this module helped you find direction. Yes, focusing on priority tasks - based on importance and urgency - can change how successful you are at work. It's often so tempting to complete the easier, confidence building tasks first. It's ok to accomplish a few of these but then it's important to push yourself to move on to more complex things.
Dr. Melissa Read
Procastination may be a result of a lack of confidance. With more practice the student may learn ot overcome his/her anxiety and complete tasks quickly.
Rebecca, This is an interesting perspective and could absolutely be true. Some students may not want to jump in because they are scared of completing assignments wrong and / or failing. Increasing confidence could be key for their success in time management.
Dr. Melissa Read
