Getting Things Done

As a teacher and a student, I find myself constantly making lists in my head. Between report cards, parent letters, homework assignments, and house chores, it often times seems like there is not enough time in the day to get everything done. I chose to make a workflow process to help organize all aspects of my life. I started out scribbling everything down on a piece of paper. Looking at a disorganized paper, however, created more anxiety. I then decided to make the process using a Google Doc. This not only appeared to be more organized, but I could also add more tasks from any computer.

             

I have always been one to make multiple “to do” lists. I make one for school, one for home, and others for various pieces of my life. Using this process for the first time, I found myself feeling instantly less stressed. All of my tasks seemed much more manageable even though the week before I felt overwhelmed. By listing my obligations, organizing them, determining what I could accomplish in a given amount of time, and completing the tasks I felt more organized and felt that it was possible to accomplish everything. Initially I was a bit nervous about switching the way in which I organize my tasks, but I quickly found out that this was a much better system for my life.

             

This process was extremely helpful to me in that it allowed me to remain focused and organized in a week of chaos. In a time of field trips, grading, family obligations, housework, and homework, I was able to approach each and every task in a calm matter. This, in turn, allowed me to remain focused and put forth my best effort. Although I found this somewhat similar to my previous lists, it was wonderful to have everything in one central location that I could add to at any given time. Using a Google Document was very helpful in that any time I was feeling overwhelmed I could simply log into my account to determine what needed to be done and when it was due.  I would recommend using a Google Document as a workflow process organizer to anyone who feels comfortable using technology.

           

I am certain that I will continue this process in the future. As my schedule appears to get more hectic by the day, I have finally found a way to organize all of the things that I need to accomplish. I am not only more relaxed and confident about getting everything done, but I am also much more organized which allows me to focus more on the tasks at hand. Although in the past I would have stuck with using a pencil and paper, after using Google Docs I think I have found the perfect solution for me. I cannot wait to use this process more and I am excited to accomplish more tasks through this workflow process.