To Do lists
How much time should one spend on making " to do lists" I think it's important not to overthink your lists, so that the process can move quickly.
Prioritize and move forward to complete your tasks and review weekly.
A to do list, may be able to help in management skills. At the end keep in mind that time management skills can be a journey on a daily basis.
When I started teaching 3 weeks ago, I did this "to do list" and even I have a planner I used sticky notes, it helps a lot, made me realize that this is effective specially after reading this topic.
there in lies the rub, how much time do we spend making to do lists??? i think i spend way too much time. i need to geet a more thorough system, and easier, like the sticky notes, what a great idea! and you can post them all over!
Charles, Having note book handy can work great. Sometimes using it when we're trying can be a challenge though. I recommend bringing a miniature tape recorder with you if you have ideas that you want to capture on long drives. This way, you capture the information safely.
Dr. Melissa Read
i agree with art about keeping a note book handy and i also think of things to do will i am driving to work
Peter, Excellent to hear. Yes, to do list writing is well worth the investment.
Dr. Melissa Read
The time it takes me to write my TO DO list,saves me tenfold the time it took to write it. I write a list almost every day,even my wife's grocery list.
Arturo, Glad to hear it. Sounds like it's working really well for you. Some instructors use these notes with great success.
Dr. Melissa Read
I too sometimes use sticky notes but also keep a note pad handy where i write my to do lists and up-date them as i complete a specific task or tasks.
Blossie, Sounds like you have a really organized system. At the same time, it sounds like you might be getting a little burnt out on it. I recommend spending a day away from your list and taking a break to enjoy some time for you. When you return, you will likely be in a better position to manage that list.
Dr. Melissa Read
Dennis, Some people use sticky notes effectively because they are able to position them in places they don't miss. As an example, I know one instructor who places these notes on their mirror. When they get up in the morning and look into the mirror, they can't help but see their task. On the flip side and to your point, it's easy to get disorganized with these notes and that should be considered too.
Dr. Melissa Read
I agree with the sticky notes ...as tasks are completed, the sticky notes are thrown away and I do not have a disorganized to-do list
Doing my "To Do List" is an ongoing process. It helps me to maintain organization; but, it never stops. At times, I get exhausted just looking at it. The reward comes when I am able to cross items off. I leave it at my bedside at night so that if I think of something I need to do the following day or during the week, I can easily add the activity. Once I add the activity, I feel relieved. Upon rising in the morning, I refine the list and clump simular tasks. The process of refining the list makes me feel that I am ready for the day. I am in charge.
For me being addicted to making "To Do Lists" has both advantages and disadvantges. The advantages far exceed the disadvantages.
I use sticky notes on my desk so I remember a particular task, question I want to ask, information to look up, or an idea. These notes I write down immediately. If I do not use notes to self, I usually do not remember.
Another tool, which the school uses, is Microsoft Outlook and calender. Reminders can be shown as "pop ups" when using outlook. Computerized reminders are very helpful in making sure a task is completed.
