Dan ,
Many instructors have concerns when students look for help or demand attention during breaks between classes. How do you address these challenges when students want to talk and you want to take a break?
Jeffrey Schillinger
I take full advantage of the small breaks between classes by either visiting instructor breakroom or going outside to collect myself.
Time for myself is most effective when I take a break for some physical activity. It re-energizes me and makes me feel that I am spoiling myself. Therefore, I am less resentful when I need to get back to work.
Suzanne
Nicole,
Good points. They are called "crackberries" for a reason. Some folks never put them down.
Jeffrey Schillinger
Shannon,
I agree that the time between classes needs to be the teachers as long as there are other times when the teacher is available.
Jeffrey Schillinger
Turning the blackberry/iphone off is one solution, or if you have self control - phone/email screening!
The time I can get away from students between classes is precious. Take that time for yourself.
I really like your idea. What I have not done at work I seem to take home, log in, and complete it. This is to my disadvantage, however, because I am not paid for the hours I work at home. I received a planner for Christmas and intend to use it BOTH at work and at home. An no more working at home. If I use the techniques I am learning about right now, it will be better.
Isabel,
Seoparating work life and home life can be pretty difficult, especially for those who use smart phones, etc. I hope this works for you.
Jeffrey Schillinger
I learned to use my time wisely. I use to go home and log on after a busy day at the office, print out paper work that was due the following day and respond to emails that i couldn't get to while at work. What i do now is, plan my day carefully, make appointments, record all my daily tasks on my calender under a specific time. I log my daily duties and give enough time to have that duty completed. I also prioritize. What must be done, i make sure it is completed before leaving and if the task can wait, i'll do it the next day. I STOPPED logging into my work account from home, once I leave my job, I leave.....It is now TIME FOR MYSELF!!!!!!
Henry,
Regular reflection is a good thing. Thanks for sharing this.
Jeffrey Schillinger
I set aside a little time at lunch. Just 10 minutes to reflect on the morning activites and review what I could have done better.
Thanks, Jessie.
What are one or two specific things that you consider when establishing importance?
Jeffrey Schillinger
I have to keep a dedicated schedule for bot work and home. If my schedules start overlapping I just sit down and decide what needs to be where, and how important each item is.
Henry,
Too many folks never turn off the cell phone. They are never off work.
Jeffrey Schillinger
Jessie,
Some folks have trouble separating life and home, even if they do not bring life home. What works best for you in separating these things?
Jeffrey Schillinger
I do the same. After completing all my important and urgent tasks, I usually get away from campus, turn my phone off and enjoy some quality time with the family. I find that to be a "must do".
I like to do work at work and just leave work at work. I like to live life at home and leave it at home. If I bring work home i don't get to live life. If I bring life to work I don't get any work done!
Angela,
Taking a minute or two foryourself during the day should be encouraged. I like to go for a short walk a couple of times each day.
Jeffrey Schillinger
I believe that it is good to schedule a time for yourself during the day. If you only take five minutes during your lunch just to relax and unwind can be the perfect anecdote. I find that I feel pressured and uncomfortable at work if I just go outside and sit in my car for a few minutes it relaxes me and I can give 100% afterwards.
I actually find myself getting off from work, pulling up in the drive way and sitting in the car for a few minutes to get my thoughts together, read mail uninterrupted, just reflect on the day or plan ahead is helpful.
