An embarrassing amount of dirty laundry waits expectantly on my floor, unable to rest peacefully in my hamper because the folded laundry from two weeks ago remains in that location. I pass the same empty Diet Coke bottle every morning, thinking to myself, "I really need to throw that away." The recycling bin in my front closet has been over filled for the past month, but I don't know where to take it and have started giving up on the environmentally conscious side of myself. Webster, though always adorable, needs a bath and haircut to prevent his de-evolution into the abominable snowman. I've had a pineapple in my fridge for 5 weeks.
My point, other than to introduce my colleagues to a little bit of my personal life?
Life is messy.
I wasn't under some false assumption that graduate school would somehow be less messy, but I had no way of knowing how much extra pressure exists when you are both teacher and student. I have really enjoyed my week of teaching so far, but I am definitely feeling the pressure of deadlines for my lesson plans, classes, and other interests.
One of the biggest things I still need to learn is more about balancing my schedules and responsibilities so that I can handle teaching and learning and still have time to do my laundry, dishes, and maybe even relax.
What do you guys do to organize, maintain, and accomplish all of your responsibilities?
It sounds like there is a lot going on with your schedule right now; I think most (or all) of us can relate to that. As far as organization and maintenance, I am a list maker and try to plow through small tasks in order. I also try to focus closely when I am working on something and take a brain break when I am not. I have a hard copy calendar that I write on plus a tiny calendar on my phone that I put tasks into. To de-stress I listen to music (unless the music itself gets stressful; then I turn it off). :)
ReplyDeleteBreaking tasks down is key. So, is protecting your time. For example, designate that a certain block of time is for homework/research or for teaching. Don't say "yes" to scheduling anything else during that time if you can help it.
ReplyDeleteI say all that, but I agree. It's messy. I feel like every time I adjust to new responsibilities, I just add more!