Repeating Stress
At our college we run on 12 week quarters which means some weeks are busier than others; therefore, some weeks have more stress than others. I have found that keeping a to-do list that I can save for each quarter to use again really has helped. This way I am reminded by my list of what needs to be done by a certain time each quarter. If the task is that I need to run a certain report and only do this four times a year, the chances of me remembering how to run the list is slim. Therefore, by writing the how-to down I can refer to it each quarter to ensure an accurate report and in a timely manner.
I think you make a good point Joseph. Unless you take a course like this, time and stress management skills really aren't taught when you're learning to be an instructor. Being proactive and getting that kind of education, as well as figuring it out as you go, are some of the only ways people get better at the organization piece.
For the biggest recurring task in my job consuming most of two quarters, not just one, I created a week-by-week to do list so that I could manage the process and make certain those participating in that process were getting what they needed from me and what I promised them. Unfortunately, it took me a few years to develop this stress reliever.
With the use of an electronic calendar, such as Outlook's calendar, I can set up recurring reminders that work in conjunction with my paper reminders.
With the same process, I also took the time to organize my materials, as noted in one of the previous modules, so that I can simply copy materials from one folder, say Winter Quarter 2010, to another folder used with the next group going through the same process, say Spring Quarter 2010.
I cannot imagine how any one could maintain a stress-free existence without planning and organization. Unfortunately, these skills don't seem to be taught. They seem to be acquired through necessity unless one participates in a course like this one.
These are great points Maria! I like the way you keep track of recurring tasks, even when they only recur once a quarter. This method probably helps you feel on top of everything. You can spend your time worrying about getting things done and not worrying about what has to be done.
