Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

This is true Clive. In this economy, administrations have put a lot of pressure on their faculty. Doing more with less has become a focus and this approach can be a big challenge.

Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Task Prioritization

Yes, task delegation to students can be a great method Carol. It allows the students to learn more about the responsibilities of work life and it can take a load off too!

Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Coping with Stress

Wow, it sounds like you've had a lot of time to reflect on coping with stress and have come up with a nice approach and outlook Richard. Sometimes when life tests us we grow -- and it sounds like in your situation, you did.

Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Coping with Stress

Yes, reaching out to others is a great strategy Stephen. It allows us to share the way we are feeling, get advice, and set expectations.

Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Task Prioritization

Yes, when your fellow faculty members and administrators pile on work, it can be tough. Setting expectations is key. Let your coworkers know how much you have on your plate and how much bandwidth is really left for new tasks.

Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Task Prioritization

Sounds like a good start Tracy. Urgent tasks should take a little more priority.

Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Causes of Stress

Wow, this is a long list Curt -- but it probably feels nice to get it on paper and out of your head. I can see that some of these items are likely out of your control, but others in your sphere of influence. Deal with those you can control first and you will make some good progress.

Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Causes of Stress

Yes, maintaining a healthy balance between personal and professional activities is key Robert. If we are not careful in the short term, we really can burn out longer term. So it's important to focus on the causes of stress early and deal with them quickly.

Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Task Prioritization

Yes, definitely can understand where you're coming from George. Often times, instructors have a case of the cobblers shoes. It's not always easy for us to put what we teach into practice.

Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Coping with Stress

These are all great ideas James. This list might seem a little daunting if you are starting from the beginning and haven't tried any of these ideas yet. I might consider picking one or two things off the list and chipping away at them first as confidence builders. Then, work your way up to doing more.