I use a calendar to write down task for that date. It helps a lot, plus I am looking at the due date as well as the task.
I too, have been known to procrastinate. The problem is my lists are too long and therefore I don't know where to start. Then I get frustrated. I will re-think how I make my "to-do" lists having completed module 1.
Philip, It sounds like you have found a wonderful use of your commuting time. While many people would look at your commute as a burden, you have found a way to make that time count.
Dr. Melissa Read
Ashley, It sounds like you have a healthy approach to ask completion. It's certainly ok to take a break ever now and then. No need to feel like you are slacking. If you are tired, rest a little and then jump back in.
Dr. Melissa Read
I have a long comute to and from work each day. I take time to reflect on the tasks of the day on my way into work so I hit the ground running. I do the same on the way home for task the next day. It helps me relax and feel more in control.
I have made lists here and there but not on a daily basis. This learning module has shown me I need to do this more.
In the past I put my lists on paper. And then would lose the piece of paper or leave it at home. Now when I make a list I put it in a notepad application in my phone so I can take it with me and add to it or delete an item anywhere I am at. And no searching for paper or pen.
Most the time I like to complete the most important ones right away or at a timely manor. So I do have time to breath and not stress at the last minute. But sometimes I do find myself slacking until the last minute when I am feeling worn down.
I am a professional procrastinator. I "think" I work better under stress but deep down inside I know better. There are not enough hours in my day to complete the work required for 3 separate nursing classes and 2 nursing clinicals.
Christopher, Sounds like you have a great system in place and one that's working well for you. If this is the case, simply keep it up!
Dr. Melissa Read
Emily, Thank you for sharing this resource! It sounds like there are a lot of people in this course who could benefit from it. Yes, it's great to have a tool that allows you to slowly evolve into having better habits.
Dr. Melissa Read
Jin Tae, Interesting approach! Most people in this course tend to do just the opposite. It's great to hear that you are leaning in to difficult tasks and knocking them out of your queue.
Dr. Melissa Read
I have already started to utilize these suggestions. This was a great course:)
I tend to accomplish the difficult tasks first and then accomplish the easier tasks at the end.
yes, i utilize a color code system with priority task first. sometimes i use dead line dates.
A resource I just discovered that has helped me (a chronic procrastinator) a lot is called "HabitRPG". You make lists of things you are trying to make habits, things you need to do every day, and a to-do list, then as you cross things off, you get points you can use for rewards you create for yourself or to outfit your little avatar character. Tasks become redder as they sit there unfinished longer.
With this, seeing an immediate reward from doing things has prompted me to get a lot of stuff finished that I've been putting off and to get in much better habits on a day-to-day basis.
I usually complete tasks with the highest degree of importance first - I do keep lists of things to do, but they are often so long and rapidly evolving that they lead to desk clutter!
the challenge is keeping up with the urgent without losing track of the important
there are tasks that are important and then task that are imposed. Administration and corporate often impose tasks with consideration of the tasks already in front of the faculty.
I put those tasks first and instill the same institution at home with my 9 year old. Homework first then video games etc.
I hate dealing with negative consequences. As an accountant I am deadline driven. That makes this easier for me. Urgency in practice is dictated by strict due dates.
In the classroom setting it is a bit different. Students sense of urgency is different than mine. I try to alleviate fears by having a two day policy. I set the due date, after that they have two days or the project, homework item etc receives no grade at all. After day one there is a letter grade subtracted.
Cynthia, Immediacy can work well sometimes when we are trying to knock tasks out of our queue. In the short term, it can make us feel better. Longer term and when we have too many tasks however, we typically need to slow down and prioritize.
Dr. Melissa Read
Thomas, You bring up a good point. There are many ways to format your to do list. Some ways are more palatable than others, so customize your list in the way that works best for you.
Dr. Melissa Read
