Sherfield and Moody Cornerstones Topic: Prioritize

Facts about Time Everyone has the same amount of time There are no “time-outs” or “turn-backs” Time flows at a steady rate Therefore, we must learn how to effectively manage the time we have!

Self-Discipline

Do You Have Free Time? Is not created by putting off work Is not time spend procrastinating Is not time taken away from obligations Is time you reward yourself with Is time you create by planning ahead Is time you can enjoy after obligations

Time Management Types The Circler – same patterns, same results The Doodler – no attention to important details The Squanderer – wasting too much time The Beggar – frustrated and expecting extra time The Planner – too much time spent planning The Hun – waiting, then being inconsiderate The Passivist – “no reason to even try”

Learning to Say “No” Think before you respond Review your schedule first Learn to be assertive (not rude) Put yourself and your future first Negotiate a reasonable deadline Put a time limit on your “yes”

Ways to Simplify Your Life Identify what matters to you Escape from technology daily Learn to delegate Record how you spend your time Spend money to save time De-clutter and organize Live in the moment Learn to give thanks and to do nothing

Procrastination Why do we fall into this trap repeatedly? What has procrastination cost you? A good grade? Money? Reputation? Dignity? Doing your best?

Causes of Procrastination Superhuman expectations Fear of not knowing how to complete task Lack of internal motivation Fear of failing No real plan for completing task Task is considered unpleasant or uninteresting Laziness or apathy Distractions or lack of focus Choosing “fun” before responsibility Waiting for the “right” mood

How Do You Spend Your Time? Spend one week recording your activities Look for distractions, interrruptions Friends or family? Technology? Being unorganized? Playing before work?

Plan and Organize your Life Divide your daily tasks into three lists: Must do (first priority) Need to do Would like to do Rank items within each list Now you have a plan!

Stress Stress – mental and physical toll on your body as a result of everyday life Stress is inevitable Two types: Eustress: good stress (can motivate you) Distress: bad stress (out of hand)

Symptoms of Distress Anxiousness and nervousness Insomnia Memory problems Physical exhaustion Chronic muscle pain Heartburn, indigestion, diarrhea Decreased coping ability

Types of Major Stressors Situational: event that causes stress Example: death of a loved one Psychological: internal mental stress Example: unrealistic expectations Biological: internal physical stress Example: weight gain/loss

Topic Reflections Make a to-list every evening for next day Include time for friends, joy, adventure Avoid procrastination – just do it! Lose your perfectionist attitude Delegate responsibilities when possible Manage your time and reduce your stress