Felicia, Sometimes we've got to take a step back and put our total task landscape into perspective. Some instructors approach all tasks with a sense of urgency but the reality is, we need to prioritize. Some tasks are not as important as others.
Dr. Melissa Read
absolutely, I have been putting things that were not of urgency as(VIP)"very important when they really were things that needed to be done within the month.
I tend to do the most urgent items on my to-do list first, although I notice if I cannot mark them off my list immediately, I get more stressed, and then it hinders my ability to get it done at all.The module has made me think about new ways to deal with this.
It is important and hepful to put things in order and follow this list to become more organized.
Anthony, Sounds like you are investing a lot in your professional development and in making yourself more efficient. That's the right approach for sure. When we invest in ourselves, we are in a much better position to help others.
Dr. Melissa Read
This is a good idea. I also tell my students to use technology for reminders and alerts on assignment due dates. I like to synch my Outlook calendar to my phone so that I get alerts when I am away from my computer. I also keep a detailed To-Do list in paper form (a paper calendar), with tasks listed by day.
Sometimes the tasks that are most important for me to complete are those that I tend to put off, as I want to make sure that they are completed correctly, and they can also sometimes seem daunting. I have learned that breaking larger and important tasks into more manageable, smaller tasks can make them seem less "daunting." Also, it is important to prioritize my To Do List by priority, using task prioritization, and not complete the tasks that seem easier or more enjoyable. Rather, if I break larger and high priority tasks down into smaller activities, it can help reduce the stress associated with procrastination and also give me a sense of accomplishment as I get closer to completing the task!
I have been using the extra time outside of class hours in the beginning part of the class for my own training, repairing training aids and ordering parts and the middle to end of the class for tutoring and other student focussed events. It works well for me and allows me to do as much as I can with the little extra time I have. I do not think I will change the order but may try to use a checklist
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
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
Yes, after reading so far, I do realise that I need to overcome my obsticle of immediacy.
I think I suffer from insecurity and also an odd form of procrastination. When I see how efficient my co-workers can be at accomplishing tasks and goals, I feel so "lesser" sometimes that I don't even begin a "to-do" list. At other times I make the list and assign urgency priorities, but then ignore the list because just accomplishing making the list oddly makes me feel that I have done "something". I am sabotageing my own process and understand that my attitude toward my tasks, co-workers' accomplishments and my to do lists is all wrong. Any suggestions?!!?
I find it interesting that the module states to "leave tasks that reoccur " only written once and put a "recurring" theme next to them?
Is this just a time saving tip?
I have dont it the other way for so long I cant even tell you!
I choose to complete those tasks that are most
important and urgent.
I certainly will consider more conscientiously the impact of not completing a task on time. I am a self professed procrastinator and have always felt I work best under pressure but I think if I spent more time organizing and prioritizing I think I would find that I have more time overall for everything both work related and personally.
Chris, Interesting discovery about yourself. Knowing the way you work and knowing yourself can really help you get more efficient at task completion.
Dr. Melissa Read
Evan, Interesting point. When we think about the outcomes of not completing tasks on time, it can really put things into perspective! I like this evaluation technique. Thanks for sharing!
Dr. Melissa Read
Todd, So true. We've got to assess each and every task that comes into our queue to determine priority ourselves. Often times, our definition of priority tasks is different than our fellow faculty members and administrations.
Dr. Melissa Read
Jane, Wow, it's sounds like you have a great system in place for managing all your tasks. I have met a lot of instructors over the years who have used sticky notes with much success. They are wonderful and easy to rearrange as priorities change.
Dr. Melissa Read
I believe I have an issue with sense of immediacy which I need to handle in a more appropriate manner to avoid fatigue.
