Author: Mahrosh Gealani
So you came to one of our Vital Skills Workshops and have a solid plan for how you will study for your Winter Term finals. You have the tools, tips, and skills. What’s next?
Let's explore some ways to not just learn about productivity, but also put it into practice.
Productivity Pro Tip # 1: Reconsider Multi-Tasking!
Do you find yourself opening up a bunch of tabs on your web browser? Well, guess what? Research has actually shown that multitasking can do more harm than good. The more tasks you try to juggle at once, the more likely you are to get distracted. So, it might be a good idea to focus on one thing at a time for better productivity.
Have you tried opening up one web browser window at a time?
Productivity Pro Tip # 2: Set Small Goals!
Are you sometimes hesitant to start a task because you're not sure where to begin? Don't worry! By setting small goals, you can focus on one aspect of the task at a time. This will make it easier for you to identify the immediate work that needs to be done. By taking this approach, you'll be able to make meaningful contributions to the overall progress of the task.
Take a look at an assignment at hand. How would you break it apart?
Take a look at our “4 Steps to Support Task Initiation” Worksheet on our Resource Table outside Berry 178!
Productivity Pro-Tip # 3: Find an Accountability Buddy!
Surround yourself with supportive people who can help you stay on track. If you find yourself struggling to complete tasks and feeling like time is passing by without progress, there's a simple solution! Just let your friends or loved ones know that you would appreciate their support in checking in on you at specific times while you work. This will help you stay focused, motivated, and remind you of your responsibility to complete your tasks.
Text a friend to be your accountability buddy. Alternatively, you can join one of our Get it Done! sessions, where you can work in a dedicated space with accountability.
Productivity Pro-Tip # 4: Create a Calendar You Will Stick With!
Create a calendar that suits your needs and preferences, instead of the other way around! Do you often find yourself looking at your calendar but struggling to stick to it? If that sounds familiar, it might be time to identify routines that you would genuinely commit to. For example, if you're an early riser, why not consider doing your class readings at the beginning of your day? On the other hand, if you tend to stay up late due to having afternoon classes, try adjusting your schedule accordingly.
If you need help figuring out what schedule works with you, work with one of our Academic Coaches!
Start slow and build productivity habits that will remain long term!