Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Donald, Sounds like you have a great process in place and one that you can count on. Great work! I also like your point about letting things simmer and I think that couldn't be more true. Dr. Melissa Read

Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Task Prioritization

Debra, Sounds like an excellent system and one that's working great for you. Some instructors find that daily list writing is the best method. Keeps us ever focused on our goals. Dr. Melissa Read

Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Coping with Stress

Donald, Yes, this approach works great. It's so important to take a step back sometimes. We are often so much better for it when we return. Dr. Melissa Read

Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Streamlining the Grading Process

William, Cross words are great. It's wonderful to be able to incorporate these and other games into the classroom and learning exercises. I find these methods lead to much higher engagement and faster learning as a result. Dr. Melissa Read

Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Streamlining the Grading Process

Jennifer, Sounds like you have developed an excellent home grown system. Systems like these can really save you time. With more time, you can focus on the things that really matter - like making a greater educational impact in the classroom or in office hours. Dr. Melissa Read

Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Causes of Stress

Rachel, This is a common source of stress for new and seasoned instructors alike. It can be a real challenge to teach a new course. I recommend reaching out to your fellow instructors and learning more about the kinds of materials they may already have on file for your new courses. This could give you a much needed turbo boost in the right direction. Dr. Melissa Read

Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Causes of Stress

Brandon, Sounds like you experience many of the common instructor stressors. It also sounds like many of these relate to your strong desire to be the best you can be at work. A lot of times, the stress we experience directly relates to our goals. In your case, sounds like those goals are ambitious and yet on track. Dr. Melissa Read

Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Task Prioritization

Robert, Excellent to hear. Yes, the process of re-evaluation is an important one. Some goals go out of date after a few days or in some cases, after a few hours. It's important to assess and reprioritize as needed. Dr. Melissa Read

Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Coping with Stress

Robert, Sounds like a great plan. It's best to distribute your coping mechanisms throughout the week instead of clustering them around just the weekend. Dr. Melissa Read

Dr. Melissa Read

Discussion Comment

Task Prioritization

Sherri, Sounds like an excellent plan! It's so tempting to want to complete tasks right away. Sometimes it feels better to knock a few tasks out of our queues. Ultimately thought, it's also good to slow down and establish priorities. Dr. Melissa Read