Task prioritization is so important. In today's world of "do more with less", I don't know anyone that is not overtasked. This module has been a good review of task prioritization. One way that I do this is by use of sticky-notes. I have a 4X6 inch lined pad that I keep less priority tasks on until completed. More urgent tasks go on small 1/2 inch sticky notes that remain on my desk until the task is completed. This may not work for everyone, but for me it is a visual representation of my prioritized tasks. No little sticky-notes = no high priority tasks awaiting completion.
Allen, So true. If we had twice as many days in the week, we'd likely still not complete what's on our task lists. I like your approach of considering how much time you have to complete your tasks. I might also recommend doing priority tasks first.
Dr. Melissa Read
Tammy, That's a great approach. Most instructors are actually not like you. They focus on the easy tasks and tent to procrastinate on the harder ones.
Dr. Melissa Read
With my background in the culinary field, I was forced to adapt and re-prioritize tasks on my to-do list throughout the day. I would make a to-do list when I arrived at work every day and would go about taking care of these tasks based on the urgency and importance behind them. This module helped to reinforce that what I have been doing is a great method to increase productivity and reduce the daily stresses of not knowing what to do next.
My to-do list was written down every morning and assigned a priority number. I then re-wrote the list and went about doing these tasks and crossing them off my list as I progressed through the day. As the day evolved some tasks would get bumped up or down depending on the urgency and importance at that time. At the end of the day, I double check my list and if there were some tasks left unfinished, I would place those tasks on the top of the list for the next day or delegate those tasks to one of my team members who is capable of finishing these tasks.
Because of the ever evolving tasks that I have as a chef, I like to set my task list up exactly like this but the order is always determined not by need but by time frame... I live to start my day by doing the longest process and fastest first. The longest because it has to be started and the fastest because it sets the pace for the day.
My challenge right now is that as a new instructor (1 month) I have yet to ascertain what is on my to do list since new demands come up a few times every day. I am beginning to see some 'structure' in this seeming chaos, however, because the highest priorities are beginning to emerge. Some tasks that had me worried 2 weeks ago are now getting transferred to "Level 3" priorities.
I prefer to handle tasks based on the time I have available rather than simpler versis complicated,that way I can maximize the use of the time.Every day there is too much to do!
I believe I do not have an "immediacy or procrastination" issue and will rate tasks in accordance with their urgency or importance with my "to do lists". I did find the methodology on consequences or ramifications of not completing a task helpful.
I believe this will help me because unfortunately I hardly ever accomplish all the items on my list.
I teach computers and networking. In computer science, in a fixed priority system, low priority tasks may never get service when the processor is consistently busy. The same is also true for an instructor. Therefore, either a priority aging system increasing priority as a deadline approaches, or a scheduling system that factors in urgency as well as priority is required.
I usually try to complete the more difficult stuff first. That way the other stuff is really easy. That will probably not change.
Yes. I usually try to finish my most important tasks first but found that sometimes putting off the smaller tasks tend to take up more of my time. What I will do is analyze all of my tasks and try and complete all in a timely manner so that not one task holds more weight than the other.
The task urgency affects the time of completion as well as its priority.
Dawn, So true. When we are not on top of our tasks, it can feel very stressful. Being a little proactive in getting work done can give us great peace of mind.
Dr. Melissa Read
Nick, Thanks for sharing. The first step in the right direction is often admitting we have a time management problem. The next step is doing something about it of course!
Dr. Melissa Read
First let me admit that Iam a major procrastinator! O.K. I said it. Its very overwhelming to think about all the things that have to be done so often times I will put it off. The model does make it easier to grasp if I make the list and prioritize. That should help.
Honestly speaking I seem to be in the procrastinator category, and I guess its because there's so much on my plate. So I must prioritize things to maintain my job status.I will definitely change the order in how things get done.
One of the things I have to do is take the list out of my head and get it down on paper (or virtural paper). Taking time to make the plan is a more concrete way for me to work. I don't even have to write it myself, I can speak it into my phone and it will type for me, but I generally only use the feature for shopping lists.
Accomplishing the most urgent tasks, and completing them before moving on to others on the list, relieves stress. When tasks are delayed, it seems to hang over my head until they are done.
Robbi, Excellent to hear! Sometimes, we just need to confirm an already solid direction. Sounds like that's what's happening here. Keep up the great work.
Dr. Melissa Read
I tend to always put my most important tasks first. After what I just learned I sort of realize that the smaller tasks may be just as important or even a backbone to the important tasks. Prioritizing what is most important as a whole, I believe will help me to complete my tasks in a timely manner.
