Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Kevin, Sounds like you have developed a system that works well for you. Great work! I particularly like hearing about your method of staggering tasks. When we spread tasks out over a series of days, it makes them feel less daunting and this can really keep our motivation up. Dr. Melissa Read

Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Task Prioritization

Monica, Sounds like a great plan. I like the part about evaluating the consequences of not completing tasks. That method really helps put things into perspective and helps you focus on the most important things first. Dr. Melissa Read

Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Task Prioritization

Naila, Yes, without prioritization, it's tough to focus on conducting the most important work. We can still complete tasks without prioritization, just not always in the most productive order. Dr. Melissa Read

Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Causes of Stress

Jay, I know it's tough to say No. Some instructors feel like they are not doing their job unless they are everything to everyone. The truth is that when we try to serve too many people, we often serve no one well. Scaling back and prioritizing can help greatly. Dr. Melissa Read

Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Coping with Stress

Jon, Yes, both ideas sound beneficial. Maybe in this new year, it's time to give at least one of them a try. You can start with exercise. Just 15 minutes a day can really make an impact. Dr. Melissa Read

Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Coping with Stress

Gerald, Love the idea of having a few great jokes in your back pocket. I'm certain this helps lighten the mood when the time is right. Dr. Melissa Read

Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Coping with Stress

Susan, Thanks for sharing. Sounds like these 10 to 15 minutes in the morning are critical to your focus and success each day. Keep that up for sure! Yes, it's hard to make time for exercise. Perhaps this is a task you can focus on during your morning meditation. Perhaps you'll be more likely to make the time if you think about it a little each day. Dr. Melissa Read

Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Coping with Stress

Gladys, Breathing really helps and it's wonderful because you can do it anywhere. Go ahead and give it a try. Could be part of a great new years resolution! Dr. Melissa Read

Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Coping with Stress

Rajini, Yes, finding alternatives is key. There are so many different paths to take to get from A to B. If you live close enough to your college, walking or biking work great too. Dr. Melissa Read

Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Coping with Stress

Dana, Sounds like a wonderful routine and I'm sure your dogs appreciate it very much too. Animals can be wonderful companions and perfect for helping with stress relief. Dr. Melissa Read