Hello, my name is Sheila; and I have not mastered time management. I’m learning more and more that if I don’t get control of my time, time will get away from me. As an example, I got home from a tiring day of work, plopped on the couch and turned on Netflix. Before I knew it, I had watched two entire movies. That’s 4 hours wasted! On the flip side, I have moments when I am extremely productive with my time. But, this is usually under the pressure of a deadline. Most people would not guess that I struggle with this because I am productive, helpful, and resourceful. I go out of my way to help students when they ask for help. But, sometimes I offer help when it’s not requested. I think this is something I need to stop because I have so many other urgent things that require my time. I have a husband, four children at home, three pets, a home, two different job titles, and I give time to my church. I am a volunteeroholic. Last year, I served on School Site Council at my daughter’s middle school and I served on our CCAE Committee at work. At my school, I volunteer often. I am proud to say that I am not serving on any committees this year. I made a conscious effort to make this change while I am in this Master’s program. I also turned down 2 teaching nights - a decision I hope I don’t regret later. What I don’t have is much of a social life. I wish I could change this. I find myself too often in Quadrant 1 because I don’t stick to my time management plans. I let distractions pull me away from important work. This has led to stress and a couple ER visits over the summer, which is why I set my health-centered goals - better eating, regular exercise, adequate sleep, etc. My desire is to be more in Quadrant 2 - where the most highly effective people are - so that my time is planned more carefully and I can get more done without as much stress. So, how can I improve my time management? First, I need to list what things are most important to me - identify the big rocks. Then, I need to schedule blocks of time daily for each of those things. Next, I need to start back using my journal to track my progress. Finally, I need to consult others who are good at time-management, like Andrea Jacobs, and ask for other strategies. While I am developing these new habits, I need someone to help keep me accountable. Being Proactive (Habit 1) and Beginning With the End in Mind (Habit 2) are important. However, “Doing First Things First” - prioritizing what’s important and focusing my time there” is critical for me to reach my goals. If I master time-management, I will improve my own life. But, I’ll also have an opportunity to teach those in my circle of influence starting with my household.
3 Comments
Bill Robinson
9/18/2015 03:22:49 pm
Sheila,
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Sheila
9/28/2015 10:20:25 pm
Prof. Robinson, I am more aware of my lack of time now than at any point of my life. I am striving for balance. I still struggle with Netflix, though.
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David
10/4/2015 02:36:01 pm
Hi Sheila,
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Sheila L. DavisPassionate Adult ESL Instructor at Grossmont Adult School. Seeking to learn new habits and unlearn bad ones. ArchivesCategories |