Get Productive

This is a article is a part of the Teachers Lounge page under the "Motivational" heading where we try to share different stories that will make you want to keep teaching. That is what  a lounge is about, a place to rest and gear up for more teaching.

We are about half way through January. It is not uncommon for teachers to lose steam and give in to their tiring minds and bodies around December.


But now we have just had two weeks of break time, and most of us got a four day week thanks to MLK holiday. 


The point is we should not be tired. We should be ready to get some work done. Go ahead and kick things up into high gear so that you get things done in your classroom.


Your students are adjusted to the class routine and you know what still needs to be covered before the end of the year. 


THIS IS NOT A TIME TO BE LAZY. HIT THE PRODUCTIVITY BUTTON AND GET THINGS GOING.


Some suggestions to get things done. 

• Access your Time Management Skills- There are few things that we waste more than time. Driving to and from Place A and B., watching TV, reading blogs (and never using the advice). We all waste so much time that it is a little scary. Take a look at how much time you spend doing each thing and then develop a plan to get more for your time.
• Make a List- many peoples problem is that they are not sure what they need to do. Sure you make mental notes but I would suggest making a physical list, whether it is in a notepad that you carry around, on your smartphone, or tablet. Make a list and start working to cross items off the list. It is amazing the sense of accomplishment you will feel from seeing the list being marked off. It gives you encouragement to keep going.
• Find Resources- It is foolish to try and do everything by yourself. Find resources that can help you get productive. Have a class TeacherAde, to help with passing out papers,  make copies, and grade papers. Use online technology to automate your files. Try Google Docs and dropbox. They will make your life easier. find organizations that can help you in the classroom. Don't do everything yourself, let people Ade you. Want more ideas click here
• Plan Ahead(Make Goals)- Setting goals gives you something concrete to work toward. It helps to know exactly what you want. "If you do not know to which port you are sailing no wind is favorable." Seneca
• Organize Your Desk- A messy workspace is not going to help you get things done.