Dr. Melissa Read

Thomas, Sounds like a great plan. More breaks can help. Sometimes, taking shorter, more frequent breaks instead of one long break is a good solution. Dr. Melissa Read

Keelan, Wonderful to hear. It's great when our administrations invest in tools that help us streamline our work activities. We all become more productive in using them. Dr. Melissa Read

Janice, Sounds like you've got a great list of coping strategies that work well for you. Nice work! I like how you mention journal. Not many instructors mention this technique but it's wonderful - and can happen anywhere you bring your journal and pen! It's nice to have that kind of flexibility. Dr. Melissa Read

Emily, It's easy to get intimidated when we make comparisons. Truth is, we all have our strengths and opportunity areas. I recommend focusing on your strengths. As it relates to opportunities, I'd focus on being the best possible version of yourself that you can be. So, don't focus so much on comparing yourself to others. Try instead to compare yourself to you - and to get better as an individual. Dr. Melissa Read

Amy, Sounds like a great plan! It's important to prioritize YOU - so I'm glad to hear your walk will become a priority. What's great is that when you make yourself a priority, you are often better at helping others. Dr. Melissa Read

RAJINI, Excellent to hear. Sometimes, just coming to the realization that we need to change a few things is a great first step! The next step is of course doing something about it. Dr. Melissa Read

Elizabeth, You raise a great point. Sharing is a good strategy, but it's important to make sure that we don't overshare. We don't want to burden our loved ones or make them feel like we only take a negative approach. Sometimes, to do lists are better outlets for us. Dr. Melissa Read

Steven, Good point. When we exercise, we do tend to sleep better. Getting better sleep also makes us more effective during the day. So doing one good thing for ourselves can lead to a wealth of positive benefits. Dr. Melissa Read

Keith, Indeed true. Fishing is a wonderful way to relax and unwind! Hiking is also great exercise and a wonderful stress outlet. Dr. Melissa Read

Elizabeth, Online exam administration is really handy. It's environmentally friendly too. Go ahead and give it a try. Saves a lot of time in exam preparation, cuts time for printing to zero and often automates the grading process. Dr. Melissa Read