I am thinking that after this module I will give myself permission to procrastinate--some. I have been stuck in the guilt of being a procrastinator and not allowing myself to have (and appreciate) this very common human 'condition'.
By relaxing a bit with myself maybe I can push through completing some of the irksome tasks that I have put off. In other words, I will assign different tasks different priorities without the accompanying guilt!
I usually accomplish urgent tasks first, being mindful of the other important tasks on my list. Since I keeps lists myself, I may modify the order in which I accomplish important and urgent tasks in the future.
I used to put tasks off for another time, but then I would find myself swamped with more work! I now prioritize the important tasks and get those done when I know I have a good chunk of time to complete them.
Prioritizing is definitely a part of the foundation of time management. It enables me to keep control in an adult learning environment
I am a huge "management person" with my time. A "to do" list is what I do a lot, especially in my planner and I do check off the things that I have accomplished that day. I try and update it as much as I can, which is usually daily.
I sometimes think everything can all be completed when in reality I know there is always more to do. I am actually considered to be the most organized instructor in the department. Sometimes I target projects that can be easily completed and other times I will target the due dates. I was in ADN, BSN, and MSN nursing school programs while working full-time, so I have almost perfected the art of prioritization.
You start by looking at what needs to be completed, when they need completed, work required to complete, and resourses needed to complete. Take a deep breath, relax, and know it does not have to all be completed today, however it should be started today.
By taking the I will do the best I can and not the it must be perfect attitude, the stress is relieved and the project comes together quicker and remains at the high standard you set.
tasks that are of importance/urgency should always be done first.
I typically complete the easiest, least time consuming tasks on my list. I have learned from this module that is not always the best choice. I am going to attempt to change this in the future.
I will certainly reevaluate the importance of each of my tasks so that I do not let certain tasks slip through my fingers, or run out of time to complete them. This can be a very difficult task, as I have a hard time creating 'to-do' lists.
Russell, That sounds like a wonderful approach. Though it's hard to create lists, we can certainly prioritize the tasks we have in our heads and make smart choices about how to get things done day to day.
Dr. Melissa Read
Charlene, It sounds like you have a great system in place and one that you can count on. That's wonderful to hear. Keep it up!!
Dr. Melissa Read
Nicole, True, thought this is easier said than done. I find that a lot of instructors try to accomplish quick and easy tasks first as confidence builders.
Dr. Melissa Read
Laura, That sounds like a great New Year's resolution! So many of us struggle with immediacy. While this can help us be productive, it can lead to burn out. Taking some time for us is a great approach.
Dr. Melissa Read
Daniel, Sometimes the most organized people are the ones that are the most insecure about their approach. This insecurity can actually drive more organization. High standards can both help and hurt us. Yes, taking some time for us can help tremendously.
Dr. Melissa Read
I have learned in this module that I may have an immediency issue. i like to grade papers as I receive them and answer my e-mails right away but I excuse it by telling myself I will forget about it until later. I have not however workedlonger days because of it and I like the idea of not having anything waiting on my desk till the next day.
I try to get them done, however It is hard to complete the task at work sometimes and i take my work home and try to complete it their.
I try to get them done, however It is hard to complete the task at work sometimes and i take my work home and try to complete it their.
I tend to accomplish tasts that are most important and urgent in chunks, if I view them as stressful. I'll do a chunk of the task, take a break to do something that I enjoy, and then come back to complete the task.
I don't expect to change that in the future, as it seems to work for me.
I have to manage my time or I'll be lost
I must prioritize or I'll miss something important
