Does anyone feel that, despite the days and weeks when you go home exhausted, you just aren't getting anything done? Or, in the big picture, like you are a hamster on a wheel?
How do you combat that stagnant feeling?
GOA9: Progress Report
2 days ago
10 comments:
I take a little time to do something which will leave a visible reminder that I accomplished something. For example, I cleaned my desk (vacuumed under it, wiped off the top)so that I can see a practical reminder that I actually accomplished something.
Chandra has a good idea.
Also, you could create checklists which will allow you to physically check off tasks as you complete them. It can be done on a daily basis or for large projects that have multiple steps.
I like both ideas, also looking at librarianship in a global way, i.e. check out other library systems, blogs, ala news, etc. helps me keep motivatd.
Chandra, that is a great idea. I'm a very lazy house-keeper, but I do make a great effort in keeping the desk neat and at least in piles.
The exhaustion is contagious, methinks. I do my best to do things little by little. I keep my to-do list handy (both in paper & electronic) and refer to it through out the week. I do what I can, though I do wish sometimes I had the stamina and strength of Wonder Woman.
The only way to help that poor hamster is to take away her wheel for a couple of days!
A librarian's job is never done. You could literally work 24/7 and still have more to do.
It is imparitive that you take EACH weekend off and do NO library work! Even if you do housework or yardwork or are productive in some other area, you will be amazed how that break from library work will energize and motivate you on Monday.
Balance, balance, balance. All work and no play makes for tired, burnt out, uncreative hamsters.
I make lists and always seem to be adding 2 things for every 1 thing that I cross off. I'm with Pat on taking a break from work on the weekends. Also, I am looking forward to a (dare I say it?) vacation sometime before my anniversary date in October.
Every now and then a student will ask a really great question, or will let me know that a workshop they attended really helped them, etc. Those are the moments I try to hold on to when I'm feeling down or underappreciated. I also try to focus on the bigger picture and look at how far the library system has come in the past few years. I think we're a great team and are coming up with some original ideas!
Just read all the comments... I agree with all of them. Hmmm, lists I have many and get remember where half of them are... Deadlines, are they really deadlines? We in library have a two-fold situation, many tasks and many interruptions while trying to multitask... Sometimes it ends up being the interruptions that are the most rewarding, but now if I can just find the list on what I was doing, so I can get back to it! LOL
Somebody put in in "timeout" please!
Jan, that's why my lists are on post-its stuck to my computer monitor. Messy, but it works! At least I've stopped writing notes on my hand.
When I am feeling overwhelmed I will sign up to work a Saturday or Sunday in the Student Support Center. I work on a project that needs to get done. This gives me a pick up feeling because I got something done! Another plus is that I get 4 hours that I can take off at some other time.
I also do this with my home life. I will pick one weekend to get as much done as possible because with kids most of my weekends are spent doing things with my family. The girls do not like this weekend because they are expected to clean their rooms and dust the house.
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