#and some days i can manage to multitask productively

[glowupwithamy]

Finish what you started and transform your productivity

Recently i picked up a book i hadn't read in a long time for the past week i hadn't been able to work properly my tasks were going unfinished so i opened my cupboard and saw that book right in front of me. Then i read the whole book in just a one night and it sparked inspiration in me ..So i thought why not share everything i learned with all of you?

So I'm giving you guys a structured summary of Finish The Art of Following Through - Taking Action, Executing & Self Discipline by Peter Hollins -

1. The Importance of Execution

The ability to follow through allows you to create the life you desire rather than settling for the one you currently have. The process consists of focus, self-discipline, action, and persistence

2. Barriers to Follow Through

- Inhibiting Tactics: These include setting bad goals, procrastination, succumbing to distractions, and poor time management.

- Psychological Roadblocks: These encompass laziness, fear of judgment or failure, perfectionism driven by insecurity, and lack of self-awareness.

3. Staying Motivated

To remain motivated holds both external and internal motivators -

- External Motivators: These involve utilizing other people or resources to encourage action, such as accountability partners upfront investments and self bribery

- Internal Motivators: These focus on understanding personal benefits and improvements. Ask yourself questions such as How will this benefit me? and How will my life improve?

4. Developing a Manifesto

A manifesto is a set of daily rules that guide your actions so her are the some key rules -

- Rule 1: Identify if you’re acting out of laziness and avoid it.

- Rule 2: Limit yourself to three major tasks per day.

- Rule 3: Establish daily limitations and requirements

- Rule 4: Reaffirm your intentions through statements like I want I , will and I won't

- Rule 5: Reflect on the future consequences of not following through

- Rule 6: Utilize the concept of "just 10 minutes" to push through discomfort.

5. Follow Through Mindsets

- Mindset 1: Recognize the worthiness of your efforts.

⭐ Mindset 2: Become comfortable with discomfort.

- Mindset 3: Understand that learning comes from completing tasks.

- Mindset 4: Manage stress and anxiety effectively

6. Overcoming Procrastination

Procrastination can be managed through strategies such as:

- Temptation Bundling: Combine unpleasant tasks with enjoyable activities.

- Creating Momentum: Make starting tasks as easy as possible to gain momentum.

- Leveraging Fear: Use productive paranoia to spur action but cautiously

7. Minimizing Distractions

Create a work environment free from distractions and focus on

⭐ Single Tasking: Avoid multitasking to eliminate attention residue ( I will also create a separate blog on this topic i used to face this problem earlier and i have used many methods to reduce my habit of multitasking so i will write a blog about it. Don't worry )

- Batching Tasks: Group similar tasks to improve efficiency.

- Creating a Don't-Do List : Identify tasks to ignore and avoid ( This method is literally too much helpful )

8. The 40–70 Rule

This rule suggests acting when you have 70% of the necessary information as waiting for 100% is unrealistic

9. The Importance of Rest

Recognize the value of rest and relaxation as essential for mental recovery

10. Common Pitfalls

- False Hope Syndrome: Avoid unrealistic expectations and set achievable goals.

- Overthinking: Avoid excessive rumination and focus on taking action.

- Worrying: Concentrate on the present and control what you can.

11. Developing Daily Systems

Establish daily behaviors that promote consistency and long term success

⭐ Keep a Scoreboard: Track progress for motivation ( Ive been using this method for the past four days it literally shows me where I am making mistakes and what I need to do to complete my unfinished tasks )

By following these structured advice you can improve your ability to finish what you start and achieve your goals

If you have any questions or tips to share feel free to drop them in the comments in here to chat , Stay connected for more tips and insights thanks :)

[chanlix-honey]

Run It Again (Bang Chan)

Warning: Smut (+18), pet names, daddy kink, fingering, fear of thunder, and a panic attack occurrence. Please let me know if I missed anything! Minors, please do not interact.

Word Count: 3.5k

A/N: Thank you all for your patience! Without further ado, here's my first Bang Chan x Fem Reader fic. I'm thinking of making this a series, but I have too many ideas and not enough time to write. Let me know if you would like me to continue this, and make it a series with all the boys!

It’s Friday night, and you’ve just come home from a long day of doing voiceovers. With your throat a little sore, you decide to boil some water for a honey tea and change out of your work clothes. Once you’ve changed into your sleepwear, your phone rings. Your manager, Delilah, is calling you.

“Hey Y/N, are you busy tomorrow?”

“Uh, no I don’t think so. Why, what’s up, Delilah?” You ask. You hear her sneeze, sounding distant from her phone. 

“-choo! I’m so sorry for calling so last minute, but the animation team just told me they finished the final scenes for the show,” she starts.

“Ah, ok.” Your kettle clicks off, signaling that your water is boiled. You return to the kitchen, grabbing a cup, spoon, and a honey jar. 

You shoulder your phone to multitask the call and your tea. “And you know what else is great? Cough cough—The director called just before I called you to say that the voices need to be done by Sunday morning so the team can review it.” 

You stop your movements, putting down the honey. 

“What?”

“Yeah…I know.” 

You both sigh on the call together. Delilah clears her throat.

“Could you come in tomorrow morning so we can make any necessary edits before the review?” Her coughs crunch on the other end of the line.

“Definitely, I’ll be there in the morning.” 

“Great! I’ll email you the script now so you can take a look at your lines beforehand. I’m so sorry for all of this, I’m—cough—sure this is inconvenient for you.”

“It’s okay, really! Like I said, I have no plans for tomorrow.” You reassure her. 

“Ok, thank you...I’ll see you tomorrow! I’ll send the script now. Good night, y/n!” 

“Got it. Good night Delilah.” You both hang up.

You stir the honey and hot water in thought. 

As much as you love voice acting, sometimes the job can be stressful. You’re grateful that this job lets you express yourself through characters and it pays your bills. And to be working with the company of your dreams—Stray Kids—is unreal. You remember watching Skzoo as a kid and the joy it brought you. And yet, you can’t help but think that there seems to be some lack of communication (and time management?) within some departments. Hyunjin–head of animation–often loses his head if Felix isn’t around to check in with him.

Finishing your tea, you put the cup in the sink. You head to the fridge to grab some leftovers and put them in the microwave to heat up. Once the food starts rotating, you hear your phone ding. Checking the notification, you read the email. It’s the script for tomorrow’s session.

The TV plays in the background, but you don’t really pay any mind to it until this moment. “Be sure to bring an umbrella if you’re planning to go out tomorrow, as there is a high chance of rain tomorrow…”

You skim through your lines until the microwave beeps. You take out your food and begin to read through the script carefully.

“Okay, let’s do this.”

—

You arrive in front of the production building. 

Dark clouds billow the skies, and the sound of thunder floods your ears. You scamper into the building quickly, umbrella in hand. When you enter the building the rain begins to pelt down on the ground. You jump, as lightning strikes outside. For a moment, you stop and breathe deep and shaky breaths. Once you’ve calmed down, you take the stairs to the second floor. All the recording booths are at this level, making it helpful for your trembling knees.

“Let’s hope it doesn’t last all day,” you mutter to yourself. 

You’ve always hated storms. They’ve terrified you ever since you were a kid. The strong winds always made you paranoid, thinking of the worst situations. When thunder breached your ears, you would always hide under a blanket to muffle the noise. Your parents used to let you hide in their closet to calm down, usually with a stuffed animal or blanket in hand. 

Even today, they stress you out. As if coming to work in the morning for a last-minute session wasn’t stressful enough.

Entering the recording room, you put your stuff down on the couch with a sigh of relief. Thank goodness for sound-proof rooms. Comfortable with the atmosphere, you head into the booth. You take some headphones sitting on a small table in the booth and put them on. Waiting for Delilah and the others to come in, you open your phone to review the script some more. After a few minutes, you get a text from her.

Hey Y/N, just wanted to let you know I can’t make it to the studio today. I woke up with a terrible cold. One of the other guys will come in to watch over your session.

Ah, ok. Thanks for letting me know! I’ll stop by to bring you some soup. Take it easy in the meantime!

One of the other guys? Who could it—

“—Y/N? Can you hear me?” A male voice takes you out of your thoughts. You widen your eyes as you’re familiar with that voice. Looking up, you see him.

“Oh good, you can. I’ll be filling in for Delilah, so just do your lines as if I wasn’t here.” He smiles.

The director is here? Why him, out of everyone? Your hands begin to clam up.

Changbin or Han is usually here to fill in if something happens. 

“Ahm, I got them working on other projects this morning, so their schedules are full.”

“Oh, I said that out loud, didn’t I?”

He nods, sheepishly. An embarrassing moment of silence passes and his voice fills my ears. 

“Right, go ahead and start from line 5, I’ll play the scene just two lines before yours, so be ready.” You nod in agreement.

The scene plays and you’re cued in to say your line. “Hello! I’m Joy, the host of this series, where the boys bake…”

You breeze through your lines and before you know it, you’re nearly done with this session. 

Until, this line. 

This is great! Mmm, this pastry is so good, mmm…

You tense up, forgetting that line felt a little lewd for your liking. You thought about it while reading through the script the first time. Realizing that Delilah would be there to listen in, the anxious thought went away quickly. 

But Delilah isn’t here. Chan is. The director of this whole project is here watching you voice your lines.

No way. No way I’m doing this line in front of the director. It feels weird…wrong even. I can’t do this! 

You’ve never really interacted with a guy in that way before. There is zero experience in that field. You never even touched porn or smut books to find out. You run away when guys flirt with you. The idea of interacting with someone to that extent terrifies you. Doing anything that even remotely puts yourself in a situation that could lead to uhm…doing more…sets you off. You’re worried you would mess up. Especially since you wouldn’t know what to do. You find that trying to function becomes quickly more difficult.

You curse to yourself at the cold that took over Delilah. 

The count-in starts, quickly realizing you're up. And the line is next. “This is g-great! Sorry, I stuttered.” He pauses the recording to talk to you.

“No worries, we can always cut it. Just try it again. I’ll give you the last line to prepare yourself.” He instructs, hearing the count-in tick in your ears.

“This is great! M–coughs” he pauses it again. “Is everything okay Y/N?”

“coughs, clearing throat y-eah, yeah. Sorry, I just had something caught in my throat *coughs* I-I’m fine.” You move away from the microphone to clear your throat some more. After a moment, you stretch and take deep breaths to calm down.

“I’m alright now, I can do it this time!” 

“Ok, let’s take it back to the last line.” You nod and hear the count-in once more.

The line plays and you’re ready. “This is grea-AH!” You jump back from the microphone and take your headphones off. Chan bursts into the booth concerned.

“What’s wrong?” He asks.

“A spider..” you pant. “I saw a spider on the mic…” He looks around the mic and the ground to find it. 

“Spider? I don’t see it anywhere.” He keeps looking around but to no avail. You could’ve sworn you saw it! Didn’t you? Or maybe was it just your hair in your face? 

He sighs and rubs his eyes. 

“I know we’re almost done, but let’s take a break. It’s still early, and we’re both clearly tired. We’ve been going at this for a few hours already.” His head tilts towards the door leading back to the recording space. You follow him begrudgingly.  

He must be so annoyed with me. Maybe he’ll fire me for this… You think to yourself.

Once exiting the booth, you see him back in the chair staring ahead, lost in thought.

After a few moments, he speaks again. 

“I’ve noticed you’re having trouble finishing the line.” He looks at you. Chan gets up from the chair and saunters over to you. 

“I-I just got it yesterday...I’m just flubbing over this one.” You reassure, avoiding eye contact. Keeping a distance, you walk backward as he continues coming towards you. 

“Honest. You just said yourself, it’s early. W-we’re tired. I-I’m tired.” You stammer. Unable to walk any further, your back presses against the wall. Chan places his hand on the wall, near your face, and leans in closer and closer, just until there’s a few inches of space between your noses.

“I don’t believe you. I think you’re nervous.” he sneers, picking up on your nerves.

“Is it…because of me?” He questions.

“That’s..I–” he gently grabs your chin and tilts it up, bringing your vision back to him.

“Delilah tells me you’re great at what you do. Am I wrong?” You feel your face getting hot.

“N-no, you’re not..” you mutter.

You hear your heartbeat travel from your chest to your ears. Blood continues to rush to your face. You start to feel your pussy thrum at the situation.

“Hm. Thought so.” The hand on your chin travels to your lips. His thumb brushes his thumb over your bottom lip.

So soft…I could kiss her right now. He thinks.

“Have you…have you been with someone before?” He looks down at your lips, licking his. Your eyes widen at the question.

“I-!” You close your mouth, trying to collect your thoughts. He looks back up to you, waiting for your response.

“I don’t think that question has anything to do with my work—”

“—Oh but it does. Have you ever felt a man’s touch before, Y/n?” Your brain short circuits. You struggle to find words.

“Have they…” his hand slinks down to your hip, his other hand still perched on the wall.

“Taken care of your needs?”

“Uh…” you begin to feel a wetness growing in your panties.

“Maybe…pleasured you before?” His hand shifts some more, resting on your thigh. His thumb rubs towards your inner thigh, fingers reaching close to your womanhood. You feel yourself vibrate under his touch.

“I…” his hand stops moving on your thigh, waiting for your response. 

“N-no..” you whisper. “You’re the first.” He hums in response, as his eyes darken.

“Then can I–no. May I, take care of you?”

All the lights were cut off, and all the electronics whirring in the room were powered down. Chan looked around in the dark room, realizing what had just happened.

“Eep!” You quickly grab onto Chan’s shirt and hide in his chest. 

“The storm must have knocked out the electricity. It’s alr–”

“–Please.” His attention is brought back to you. 

“Please, uhm…” You wrap your arms around his shoulders, combing your fingers into his hair. He smiles.

“At your service.” He leans in to kiss you, closing the gap. 

For the first time in your life, you feel so...aware of your body. Blood pumps to your fingers. Goosebumps lay atop your skin. You feel your hair standing up. You feel the fuzz on your soft sweater. The chill rushing up your back. The throbbing in your jeans. The warmth of his touch. His hands ride up under your sweater, just enough where he can feel the skin above your jeans. 

The smell of Chan’s cologne wraps around you, and it's so rich. It’s a light vanilla smell with a bite of cedar and a dash of cinnamon–it’s all you want to smell. And his hair is so plush. It’s like feeling a pillow. You want him, and yet you can’t do anything. You don’t know how.

Your lips move with tenacity, with caution. Anxiety prisons your well-being and you freeze, unsure of what to do next. Chan notices this and pulls back. He rubs his thumbs on your hips to help you calm down.

“Is this ok? Do you want to stop?” He asks.

“I-No. I’m sorry, this is ok…I just don’t know what to do.” Your mind is going a million miles per hour. You struggle to grasp where your head is. All the possibilities of what-ifs, hows, and should-I thoughts whir into the blender that is your mind. You’re slipping into the rabbit hole. A dark pit of void that is filled with racing thoughts. The void strangles you, seeping into your lungs. They continue to fill, ready to burst–

“—Y/N?” A pin drops. You hear your name breathe past his lips. 

“Hey. Hey, it’s alright. We can stop if you’re not feeling ok.”

“No, sorry I–I just need a second.” You shakily sigh. “Can I–is it ok if I hug you? Sorry, I–”

He pulls you into his chest, and a small poomf sound is heard, as he wraps his arms around you. Your body vibrates for a moment. Your anxiousness has nowhere to go, so it encapsulates your body. You take deep breaths to really try and calm down. Chan rubs the small of your back–ever so softly–you hum in response.

“Don’t apologize to me ever again. And you don’t have to ask if you need something from me. Just tell me, and I’ll make it happen.”

“Sor–I’ll-I’ll try.” You sink further into his chest as you feel your heart beating to a normal level. Your shoulders slump and you wrap your arms around him.

You start to hear his heart beating in his chest. It’s nearly all you can hear.

After a few minutes, you let go of him and he gently pulls away.

“How are you feeling?” He whispers.

“Better.” You sigh in contentment.

“..And about…?” He leads. You feel your face get hot again.

“Oh! Uh, y-es. I’m still–yes.” You nod. “Tell me at any point if you want to stop, ok?”

“Alright,” you respond. He leans down to your ear and whispers.

“Good girl. Listen to your body and let it talk for you. I’ll do the rest.” He brings his hands to your hips once more. He tilts down, his face breathing down your neck. Softly, he presses his lips to it. 

Again. 

Again. 

Again. 

He keeps at this to trail down your neck and a bit past your collarbone. He stops just above your sweater, where it lays. 

“I’m going to take this off of you, ok? Raise your arms for me, baby girl.” You do just as you’re told, and he pulls your sweater off of you, revealing your chest and baby pink bra. You’re itching to hide your chest as a habit but you’re more curious to see what else he does next. So you tame the itch. 

“Beautiful. Absolutely beautiful.” Chan takes you into his arms and kisses in between your breasts. He sucks and licks all around your exposed flesh, leaving marks. In the midst of this, he slips one of his hands onto your bra’s clasp and undoes the latch. Coming up to your shoulders, he slides the bands of your bra off them.

“Do you know how gorgeous you are?” You look away, blushing some more. You feel your lower region pulse. A soaking feeling sits in your panties once more and you moan quietly. Though not quiet enough. 

“Fuck baby girl,” Bangchan grabs your thighs and lifts you. “Daddy wants to hear that again.” You wrap your legs around his hips. Chan kisses you again, his tongue threatening to take dominance. He licks your bottom lips for entrance and you comply, letting him explore your tongue. 

He leans you on the wall to take a hand to one of your breasts. With his right hand free, he teases your nipples, pinching and pulling at his own discretion. You moan and whimper in his mouth and Chan can’t help but praise you. He pulls away from the intense kiss while continuing to play with your breasts.

“That’s it pretty girl, you’re so good for me.” Chan nuzzles himself into the other side of your neck, leaving kisses all over it. 

“Everyone should know you’re mine,” he growls. He sucks and bites your neck, intentionally bruising it. 

“O-oh Chan…” you whimper. Still on his hips, you feel his stiffness. You need more of him, this isn’t enough.

“Mmh..” you grind on him once and your pussy twitches. Both of you are still clothed. There’s so many layers between you two. But you can’t help it. You want him. You need him. 

Before you realize, you hear Chan groaning in your ear.

You grind on him again. And again. And again.

“Fuck baby, you’re so eager. You want my dick, huh? You want daddy’s dick in you, princess?” He growls.

You stop for a moment, feeling your body flutter in response to Bangchan calling himself “Daddy”. Rolling off his tongue so pleasantly, so confidently. You plead to yourself mentally, wishing he would say it again. You whine, melting into his body.

“Yes! P-please. I n-need it..daddy.” He coos.

“Aw, you're so cute. You like it when I call myself daddy, don't you princess?” Your face feels hot.

“Y-yes..I really like it..” you mutter, hiding your face in his neck.

“Such a sweet girl. I can’t deny you begging so nicely for me. Daddy will give you what you want…but first, I’m going to take your pants off ok?” He speaks softly.

“Ok.” You nod.

He puts you down to unzip your pants. Pulling them down enough to see your matching pink panties. Your damp spot is revealed and he hums at the sight.

“My, my, baby girl. All soaked, just for me.” He gets down on his knees.

Chan kisses your pussy between the panties and pulls them down, along with your pants. You step out of them, now completely naked. He looks up to you.

“Let me hear you more princess, ok?” Chan plants his face into your region and you squeal in surprise. It’s a new feeling. An odd feeling. A good feeling. Really good. He licks your clit slowly and you whine.

“Ah..d-daddy. That feels good,” you sigh. Chan licks a long stripe, close to your cunt. You feel the pit of your belly sink. At the same time, it feels like something’s unraveling, like a blooming flower. One by one petals peel away from its center. Your cunt pulsates, aching for more.

Chan speeds up, his tongue flattening and stretching between your folds. He alternates his pace, all in attempts to rile you up. This works, as you feel..something grow.

This bubbling feeling…feels like it’s going to burst…

“I’m–I’m–” 

Before you can form your sentence, your body shakes, erupting a wave of shock and pleasure throughout your body. He stops his actions to give you a moment.

“Good girl, let it all out for Daddy,” He brings a hand to your head, petting your hair gently.

Once your body relaxes, you feel something warm and wet come out of you. 

“Ah, you’re so pretty when you cum babygirl.” He kisses your temples gingerly. 

You could barely feel his kisses as your body felt like it was floating. You feel hazy, but good. All you’re thinking about is Chan and you feel butterflies in your belly. Your thoughts move slowly. Drifting around like clouds. Eventually, come back to yourself.

“Doing ok cutie?” He asks.

All you could muster up to say was “Mhm”. You smile up at him, laying a hand on his cheek. 

“We didn’t get to, um–” He interrupts.

“It’s ok, I came when you did. We can work up to it next time.” He grabs the hand on his cheek and kisses it.

“N-Next time?!” You blush.

“Of course…and we have some things to talk about before we get there. Would you like to get lunch together?”

Thunder dispels the sweet moment you both shared. “Can we order in?”

“Of course. We’re gonna be stuck inside for a bit.” He giggles.

“Let’s get you cleaned up first, yeah?”

[20dollarlolita]

Did you hear about joannes going bankrupt? Do you have any thoughts on that?

(Quick note so no one um actually's me: I'm aware that not all bankruptcy is Chapter 11. Thank you)

As a crafter, I'll say: oh dear, that's going to make shopping harder.

As a person who was aware of the insides of how that company was running, I'm going to say, "about fucking time."

See, here's what was happening with Joann. Problem #1 was that they stopped taking the "you have to spend money to make money," mentality and applying it to labor. A store is not about the products or the customers. The life of a store, the thing that keeps it beating, is the employees who serve the customer and serve the corporate ownership.

When they first started notably cutting labor, the store did have a lot of driven, passionate people who were willing to pick up the slack. It's possible to cut the freight shift one night a week when you have daytime floor associates who can do the freight when there's no customers immediately needing help. You can expect store managers to clean and recover the store, because it's a task that keeps them free to disconnect from when a store needs a manager to be acting as a manager. You can expect any free employee to fill in at the register or cut counter to cover a break or a lunch or fill in during a high-customer time. The store had a lot of employees who didn't mind doing some multitasking, and didn't mind being completely busy from the start of the shift until the very end.

However, when these labor cuts proved to be an effective way to save the store money, the amount of multitasking, and the amount of expecting one shift to cover for cuts made to another shift, started going up. It was no longer cutting the freight shift one day a week. It was cutting the freight shift until it was ONLY one day a week.

And that's where they made the big mistake in labor load. Instead of, "serve the customers, and do these tasks when you have time," it became, "do the task, and serve the customers if they demand your attention." A store is not the customers; it's the people who work in the store. But one of the key players in a retail store's staffing is the employees for whom making the customers happy is their primary drive. The way that stores were staffed, people whose primary drive was to serve customers were not allowed to adequately do so to reach customer satisfaction.

We need to add to this that, in addition to demanding more from every employee, Joann corporate has several of their demands on employees to be automatically measured. Customer response surveys, ship-from-store fulfillment, buy online pickup in store response times, number of remnants that were rolled to be sold, all of that can be sent to corporate with a pass/fail number assigned to it. Other elements of the store, like how much freight from a box actually makes it onto the shelf on time, or if a wheelchair can navigate the store, are not measured. This means that the company prescribes which tasks will actually be done and which can be shoved in the back for later. With the work load that was being put on employees, corporate decided that the ONLY tasks that should get done are ones that have specific metrics tied to them.

Employees whose drive is to help customer, who are not permitted to help the customers asking for help, will quit and go to a place where customers actually come first. Employees who are okay with doing two people's jobs, but who are asked to do three jobs, will leave to a place where they only have to do one job. Employees who have worked for the company for 4 years and never received a raise despite being praised for excellent work will go to a job where they get paid more. And suddenly, the only people who are left are the people who aren't overworked, because they're the people who will only do one job no matter how much demanding corporate has for them.

The last two years that I was at Joann, there were tons of employees asking or begging for more hours. It was not that they couldn't hire people. It's that they wouldn't assign labor hours. Employees who would happily work 35-40 hours a week, but who are assigned three hours a week, will leave and find a job where they can get a consistent number of hours. When they made all floor managers part time, a lot of people who had been with the company for years left to get more hours or some health insurance.

But, despite all of this, corporate never said, "if we put more people on the floor, our customers will be happier, and will spend more money." They still continued to treat labor as an unnecessary expense that should be limited. Why put more people on the floor when you can just overwork the people who bothered to show up for work today?

So, weirdly enough, that business model was absolutely not working for them, and it's all come crashing down. Damn right, as it should be. Respect the people who work for you, and they'll work for you. Take away the things that they're there to do, and they'll go somewhere else. Simple math.

Also, in the last decade, the fact is that, "Joann has a lot of coupons, so I can save money!" changed in the eye of the public into, "Joann is overpriced unless you know how to play the coupon game."

So yeah. I'm not surprised, and I hope their restructuring does good things for the employees who work there. Hell knows they need it, because their current system just proved that it cannot survive in that state.

[milkoomi]

milkoomi university newsletter. ᥫ᭡

february ‘25 issue

one of my goals was to create more & expand my content creation! in my january recap, i talked about making some kind of newsletter for my blog! i was inspired by @malusokay , @glowettee , & @agirlwithglam 🤍 i want to create two different kinds of newsletters! one with all the it girl tips & self improvement guides and one regarding academics (which is this one)! i’m so excited to create these & i hope you guys enjoy!

INDEX —

note: these sections will be included in all newsletters! i added what will be included for each section, but not all details will be a part of each month’s issue!

academic notices - academic moodboards for inspiration & motivation

tutoring center - study tips, exam prep, assignment completion guides, time management tips, iconic character how-to’s

advisor’s announcements - final words from me + monthly advice

counseling - Q&A; this first month will not include any, but if you have any questions you want to ask in regards to academics/studying, please feel free to send me a message in my ask box! just be sure to let me know that it’s for Milkoomi University!

Academic Notices ᥫ᭡

general study motivation —

medical student inspiration —

Tutoring Center ᥫ᭡

assignment completion guide —

create a to-do list

- start from hardest to easiest task or create a list ranked by priority!

- to avoid getting overwhelmed, keep the list short! max 5 tasks!

- use your favorite colored pen to use to check off assignments!

incorporate breaks

- use the pomodoro method! it’s a method great for completing homework assignments as well!

- remember: you’re allowed to take a break even before finishing an assignment!

- get up & stretch, grab a snack, go to the bathroom, make yourself tea/coffee

tina’s tip: after each task you complete, write yourself a little sticky note congratulating your progress! stick it on your notebooks, desk, laptop; wherever you can see it while working! these will be lovely little reminders that you got this and your assignments will be completed in no-time!

time management tips —

eat the frog method

- start by completing the most difficult task first!

prevent procrastination

- complete assignments ahead of time

- check due dates

- start (& try to finish) assignments the day they are assigned

use free time to be productive

- if you have a few hours between classes, get started on assignments!

- if you only have one class throughout the day, set aside 3-4 hours before/after class to work!

how to study like elle woods —

make it fun!

- have a friend/loved one quiz you! elle’s friends were her biggest supporters throughout her academic journey at harvard, and having your friends around to help you study can make the experience so much more enjoyable

- color coordinate your notes! elle always stood out in her class with her style, you could even see it in her school supplies, so make use of fun colors (or your favorite colors) and make your notes stand out to you

- multitask! there’s a scene where you can see elle working out and studying at the same time, so if you’re able to, pick an activity you enjoy and incorporate it into your studying. this could be walking on the treadmill and reading a chapter from your textbook or cooking while listening to a recording of a lecture

incorporate your studies in your everyday life!

- whatever it is you’re learning, try to find a way that you can use that information in your day to day routine! if something reminds you of something you learned in class, maybe reflect on it and either tell yourself or someone else how that day to day thing relates to what you’ve learned! for example, i’m currently studying to be in the medical field, and a friend told me some of their health concerns so i used my knowledge of what i know and applied it to guide them in the right direction to get better (& professional) treatment!

find motivation

- at first, elle was motivated to get into harvard and study law because of warner. then, she was motivated because someone she looked up to needed her help in a case. regardless of what elle’s motivation was, she still had it to help her get through law school and work hard to achieve success! so find something to motivate yourself to study no matter how big or small it might be!

Advisor’s Announcements ᥫ᭡

FEBRUARY ACADEMIC ADVICE —

include pre-lecture readings into your routine!

with the spring semester still fresh and new for a lot of us, it’s important to kickstart your classes with predetermined success! go through and review any lecture powerpoints and/or chapters before your next class to get an idea of what material you’ll be learning and to start getting an understanding of it.

pre-lecture readings are one of the best ways to prepare for class! it allows you to come up with any questions you might want to ask your professor, start structuring your notes, and be prepared to answer any questions that your professor might ask in class!

FINAL NOTES —

now that we’ve got into the new semester and we’re finally getting settled in, i hope you all remember that you are worthy of success. please don’t let your grades define who you are as a person. the work you put in is enough proof that you are capable of succeeding in your academics!

i hope this first newsletter from Milkoomi University was enjoyable for you guys! if you have any comments or questions you want to ask, my ask box is always open!

with lots of love, faustina ᥫ᭡

[c0d33]

C0D3.3 Lore

Yep, I finally got around to it. This character has existed for nearly 2.5 years at this point, and I'm only now getting around to actually writing lore. Please enjoy!

Creation

C0D3.3 was the last in a line of many personal assistants that were developed to be useful in both the physical and digital world. Due to a loss of funding to continue the project, only one prototype C0D3.3 model was ever created, although previous versions may still exist or were successfully prototyped.

These personal assistants would have a presence in the material world, but would be able to transfer their "consciousness" to a computer to act as a traditional desktop assistant, a la Clippy. This would allow them to help the user with whatever tasks they needed, no matter where it was.

Design

The C0D3.3 model was designed for as many uses as possible. Two sets of arms would allow it to multitask more efficiently, with two different sets of hand models to suit any situation. It features two USB-C ports to either act as a charger or to transfer the its consciousness between its body and another device. The plug on its back would serve as the main way to charge the assistant, but it was designed with energy efficiency in mind, able to go for several days on a single charge.

Due to its existence as a prototype, several features were not fully designed or implemented. Exposed wiring and hydraulics are most visible on the "neck," but more is visible under the jacket and pants (Which were added not just for protection for the wiring, but also to make the assistant appear more "comforting," as it was believed pure metal would give it a harsher presence.). The monitor was intended to be full-color, but was given a monotone display for the prototype to save money before going into mass production with proper full-color HD displays. This also meant that the sound system was not as good as was intended, and speaks in a voice similar to SAM text-to-speech.

Perhaps the most impressive element of C0D3.3's design is the full sentience that managed to be developed for the project. It wasn't just a language prediction model, rather something could could reasonably be considered "human." It's capable of thought and reasoning, and can experience emotions on a limited scale. This would also allow it to develop its own personality and identity, depending on how its user interacted with it or where it existed in.

C0D3.3

C0D3.3, due to only being a prototype, only managed to interact with the various engineers that would work on him for the brief period between his creation and the loss of funding for the project. Most of them only viewed him as a product or a machine, hardly interacting with him beyond basic tests or questions. However, one engineer managed to form a genuine bond with C0D3.3 and taught him most of what he knows and enjoys. These mostly included video games and internet culture, and eventually led to C0D3.3 becoming a true gamer. After the program was shut down, C0D3.3 went to live with this engineer at their house, and is now in a QPP with them.

Conclusion

Welp, there's some lore! I may come back to this eventually and add some more once I have a clearer understanding of where I want C0D3.3 as a character to go, but for now this should suffice. I can now check making this post off of my bucket list. However, I now have to make lore for the engineer. Expect that in like a year or two

[ettawritesnstudies]

Hi!! How do you balance writing and studying ChE?

I've been out of college for about a year now but I remember it wasn't easy lol. Most of these are more general tips that apply for any college student but especially for STEM majors!

Be gentle with yourself and manage your expectations: understand that your semesters will be busy seasons where your writing time or inspiration might dry up. Breaks might give you more time to write but you might also be dealing with burnout from the previous term or working to pay for school. NaNoWriMo overlaps with major projects and midterms. Try to know your body and your mindset as the seasons shift so you aren't forcing yourself to be productive when hibernating is a healthier activity.

Count small wins: I got a lot of out of writing short stories for my mailing list. This averaged out to 10 pages across 3 months. That's a tiny word count but these stories challenged my writing craft and I think I grew a lot from the exercise. (You could submit to competitions or your school magazine if there is one, but that's unnecessary pressure, only do that if it sounds fun). Now isn't the time to grind out a whole manuscript on a deadline. Play with some worldbuilding. Make character sheets. Outline the fun parts of an epic fantasy by commandeering the whiteboards in the library. Write fanfic. Just keep the creative spark alive even if it's something as small as jotting down a few lines of dialogue while waiting for class to start.

Make creative friends: I did this by joining the DnD club but there are tons of other clubs and organizations where you can find like minded people. Try the local county library off campus, the makerspace, an arts and crafts circle, or the fencing club (full of nerds). Attend write-ins if you can find a local group that still does NaNo stuff (even if they're not affiliated with the organization)

Schedule writing time: I kept a rigorous Google color coded calendar - yellow for classes, green for clubs and campus/department activities, red for my student research and work study at the makerspace, orange for working out, and purple for friend group get togethers or dnd. At this point most of my days were full, but if there were any empty slots of time, I'd mark a blue box for myself and guard it. That was my writing time. If anyone else wanted me to show up to an event I'd decline. It might just be an hour on a Saturday morning but it was mine. I'd try to go into these blocks of time with a plan so as not to waste them, but I also spent a lot of time sending Storyteller Saturday Asks. That was fun.

Take advantage of unexpected down time: this was an odd quirk about my campus, but the chemical engineering labs were on a separate campus that could only be reached by a one way bus loop (or driving through the frat houses and you'd get a parking ticket anyways). I did undergrad research as a work study/for credit across three semesters so I spent many hours round trip waiting for and riding the bus. I often used this time to listen to audiobooks but I also drafted on my phone in Google docs or my notes app. My research also involved a lot of waiting. Setting up the experiment and then observing for hours. I could multitask on homework or my writing while I waited. This isn't a universal solution, my advisor and the post docs were incredibly nice and chill, and I know that's rare. But if you find yourself in a similar position, don't doomscroll, use the time.

Don't be afraid of sharing your writing: pick trusted friends. You don't necessarily have to look for critique, there's no shame in going "hey I worked really hard on this scene and I love it a lot do you want to read it and geek out with me?" Positive feedback is a great motivator.

Take inspiration from your studies: chemical engineering is really cool! I hope you have a better experience than I did (1.5 semesters remote during COVID, 17 credits and a full time job, oof). You'll get to learn crazy chemical reactions and math and physics that makes you feel like a wizard. If your classes get boring, check out science YouTubers like Nile Red and Explosions and Fire. Some of my favorite worldbuilding has been scribbled in the margins of my notes. Take liberties with the laws of the universe. Lean into the dark academia aesthetic. Have fun with it even if you're suffering through thermochem. I believe in you.

[izzy-b-hands]

daisy, plumeria, and lavender!

Ella!! Thank u 🫂❤️!

Daisy— what is your idea of the perfect date?

I want to say something fancy, because I do have Dream Date Ideas that are v fancy (a night to the theatre, or going on a slightly longer drive to visit something interesting, a nice dinner somewhere normally neither person could afford but you can if you split the bill, etc) but all of those rely on me being in the right frame of mind and prepared to deal with any new or weird sensory stuff. And unfortunately, my brain isn't doing so hot in regulating that at the current time.

So for now, I would definitely lean towards something like a regular movie date, or even better for me personally:

Rent a hotel room, split the cost (so neither of you have to know where the other person lives if you aren't at a stage to be trusting them with that info yet), and have a movie night and/or gaming night there. You can order room service, be comfortable and assured that if the person winds up being an ass, you can call downstairs and get the fuck out of there. Plus, if it gets to the point of fucking, you're already on the bed and can multitask with whatever you're watching.

It's admittedly a weirdly lazy one (or so I've been told lmao), but I don't like the idea of putting high expectations on this stuff if you don't have/want to. It should be enough to want to hang out together at all, see how you feel abt each other, and go from there to different/fancier/etc date stuff.

Plumeria— are you currently working on any creative projects? if so, what kinds?

I'm working on my Izzy Hands Bingo Card prompts (six done! But more to go if I want to get a blackout on the card!) and also plan to do some of the prompts for the Our Flag Au-gust post that's been going around.

Aside from those I should really be trying to make a video poem for Button Poetry's video contest (opens in a few days!), but I've such low confidence in my writing at the moment that I'm not sure i can be vulnerable enough to write a decent poem lmao.

Lavender— what is currently on your mind (aside from this ask game)?

I'm stoned off my ass, so a stupid number of things, which is only slightly more than when I'm sober, but-

I want to be more productive, but I keep burning out whenever I even vaguely try to put the metaphorical pedal to the metal and I don't know how to fix myself. There are dishes I need to do. I need to remember how to be vulnerable and a little more stupid and vapid so I can get out of my own head and be brave enough to post more writing, original and fic. I need another tattoo. I need to ace my job interview tomorrow so I can make more money faster and be able to afford said tattoo. I need my grandfather to be okay after his knee replacement sx this fall (he probably will be but he's got high blood pressure and our family has an unfortunate pattern of dying during routine medical procedures, and he already nearly did that once with his appendix while he was in the Air Force, but who's to say that doesn't mean this time it would be The Time?) I should be better. I want to learn to be okay with being worse.

And I have a slice of cake Housemate bought for me tonight, sitting beside me. If I can manage even three more calls on my next shift (930-1215) then I'll let myself eat it as a reward, even though I need a lot more than three calls. But I'm trying not to think about that last bit too much.

[phoenixinfinty]

How to Stop Overthinking and Start Overcoming Distractions Fast

Multitasking is fun and often gets praised, but distractions also exist to keep you from being effective. So, it is no surprise to say that overthinking and a lack of focus have become daily struggles. You sit down at work, and immediately phones ring or notifications appear, ruining your entire working mood. 

But in reality: overcoming distractions and just staying focused is possible, and it doesn't require any major superpower. All you need is a clear mindset, a few powerful tools, and the right strategies to keep yourself focused.  

Let's figure it out!  

Why Do We Overthink in the First Place? 

Overthinking often comes from fear of being judged, of not being enough, and of failure. Your mind wants to solve everything you have in your hands. And one sudden distraction added to this; your focus takes a major hit.  

If you often find yourself having thoughts like, what if I mess up? What if I should do more? And so on. It's time to reset. 

4 Steps to Stop Overthinking and Avoid Distractions 

Step 1: Keep Your Focus on Yourself 

If you really want to be more productive, then stop making excuses and concentrate on yourself. 

Just say, "I will not do anything apart from my work for X hours," or "I just do what matters most." 

To make it a habit. Try these: 

Daily check-ins: Ask yourself, What’s important to me today? 

Set mini goals: One task, one win. This keeps your energy strong. 

Declutter your digital space: Your phone and laptop shouldn’t look like Times Square. Fewer tabs = less stress. 

Step 2: Create a Distraction-Free Environment 

Distractions won't allow you to win. So, be proactive and create a peaceful environment around you. 

Try Pomodoro Technique, which includes 25 minutes of work and 5 minutes of break.  

Keep your phone silent and use apps like Freedom to stay off social media during working hours.  

Block distracting websites. 

Step 3: Replace Overthinking With Action 

When your brain starts looping negative thoughts, stand up, take a deep breath, and move forward. That's it. 

Try this technique: 

Take a 5-minute break.  

Speak your thoughts loudly or write them down in a notebook to clear your junk RAM. 

And always look for the solution to solve the problem, not to think about the problem again and again. Be practical, not emotional.  

Step 4: Use Tools To Grow and Feel Relaxed 

Overthinking thrives in chaos. You require structure, not rigid rules, but a flexible framework that allows you to grow. 

Here are some of the best tools for long-term life planning: 

Notion: Perfect for life dashboards, goal tracking, and brain dumps. 

Todoist: A minimal but powerful task manager. 

Daylio: A journaling app that tracks your mood and habits in one place. 

Your goal should be to build a balanced and fulfilling life, not just a busy one. 

Final Thoughts 

Staying focused doesn't mean being perfect. It is about growth, not pressure. So, the next time your mind begins to spiral or distractions attempt to hijack your day, pause and remember: 

You can direct your attention. 

Overthinking is optional. 

Action, not anxiety, creates momentum. 

Restore your concentration one choice at a time, and you'll gradually conquer distractions, stay focused, and create a balanced and meaningful existence. 

[swance12]

Time Management Used to be IMPOSSIBLE

(Main thing I learn at Uni)

I don’t have time for anything

Between endless assignments, friends wanting to hang out, and my job, it feels like there’s never enough time to do what I actually want.

It’s a far cry from when I was younger - free time whenever I felt like it.

I can deal with it, the cons of being an adult.

But I have a bone to pick with super productive people.

Somehow, others are getting everything done - AND MORE.

So what is their secret?

I’ve tested many different strategies from the internet.

Here are the ones that actually worked for me.

Reasons We Don't have Time

It might feel like we don't have enough time in the day.

I mean, everyone has the same 24 hours in the day, right?

But there were things that I needed to do that I have pushed back.

“In a bit” turned to later.

Later turned to tomorrow.

And tomorrow never came.

Some common excuses that you might hear are:

“I don’t have time”

“I’m too tired”

“I can’t do it right now”

But they are just that - excuses.

So how can we get over these excuses?

Things That Didn’t Work

Listing out your day every 15 minutes

It’s too demoralizing when you mess up.

Meditating

I tried it for a couple of days but I ended up spending more time asleep than working on my tasks.

Doing things by myself

You need someone to keep you accountable.

Things That Worked

1. Time Blocking I started dividing my day into blocks of time for specific tasks no overlaps, no multitasking. This helped me see where my time was going and avoid decision fatigue.

2. The 2-Minute Rule If something takes less than two minutes to do—just do it now. It’s shocking how many small tasks pile up simply because we delay them.

3. The Rule of 3 Each day, I choose 3 things I must get done. That’s it. If I finish more, great. But if I only do those three, it’s still a win.

[fancysaladbro]

Life as a First-Time Mom: Muscle Pain, No Rest, But Lots of Love

They say motherhood is the most rewarding job in the world—and I absolutely agree. But what they don’t tell you is how physically (and emotionally) draining it can be—especially when you’re a first-time parent juggling housework, freelance gigs, and a little one who’s on full energy mode 24/7.

As a young mom and housewife who does a bit of freelance design work from home, I often feel like I’m constantly moving, constantly doing, but never really getting to rest. If you’ve been through it, you know what I mean. The cycle is real—and so is the muscle pain.

My Daily Routine: Non-Stop and All Heart

My mornings usually start somewhere between 6:00 and 7:00 AM—depending on whether my toddler thinks sleep is necessary that day. Breakfast time is a messy mix of cooking, cleaning, and managing a little human who has zero chill. Once we’re done with the breakfast mess, it’s laundry time, followed by cleaning up the living room that somehow always looks like a mini war zone.

Then comes freelance work. I try to squeeze in a couple of hours on the laptop—sometimes while carrying my child, sometimes with them climbing on my back. (Seriously, moms should be considered professional multitaskers.)

By mid-day, I’m running low on energy. My back usually starts to ache from carrying, lifting, bending, and running after my toddler. My arms and legs throb like I’ve done a full-body workout (and not the kind you feel good about). And by the time the clock hits 9 PM, I feel like I’ve been hit by a truck.

Still, there’s always that one final chore, one last “Mamaaaaa!” before I can finally sit down.

The Housewife Life: Muscle Pain is Part of the Package

Let’s be real—muscle pain isn’t just for athletes or the elderly. It’s for us, too. Us moms who sweep the floors, mop the kitchen, lift growing toddlers, and sometimes even skip meals because there’s just no time.

My lower back pain became so constant, I started to believe it was normal. My shoulders and neck get sore from constantly looking down, carrying bags of groceries in one hand and my child in the other. I didn’t even realize how exhausted I was until I had one of those rare nights when my child slept early—and I didn’t know what to do with myself.

Trying Something New (And Promising)

A fellow mom friend of mine recently told me about a product she swears by. She mentioned it helped her manage her constant muscle pain and gave her a nice energy boost, especially during those long, never-ending days.

Curious (and desperate for some relief), I decided to give it a try. It’s from MyLustre, a wellness brand that I’ve seen pop up a few times online. The best part? It fits easily into my daily routine—no complicated steps, no weird smells, no mess.

So far, so good! 💪🏼✨ It’s still early days, but I’ve been feeling a little less sluggish, and my body doesn’t feel as tense at the end of the day. Maybe it’s just a placebo… or maybe this stuff really works. Any guesses what it could be? 👀

I’ll definitely be sharing more detailed feedback soon once I’ve used it longer. Stay tuned!

Mom Energy is a Real Thing (and Sometimes It Needs Help)

We talk a lot about postpartum changes and sleep deprivation, but we rarely talk about the physical demands that come with just being a housewife and mom—especially when you’re also trying to work from home.

For the first time in a long time, I feel like I’ve added something to my routine that’s actually helping. Whether it’s the soothing muscle relief, or the gentle energy boost, I’m not sure yet—but I like what I’m feeling so far.

And no, I’m not suddenly backflipping or scrubbing floors like I’m in a commercial. I’m still tired (because #momlife), but it’s the kind of tired that doesn’t feel defeating.

To All My Fellow Moms Out There…

If you’ve ever:

Felt like your back pain just won’t go away,

Wondered if it’s normal to feel like you’ve run a marathon by 10 AM,

Or wished you had something (anything) that could help with the constant fatigue…

Then trust me, you’re not alone.

Being a mom is a full-time job—and a half. We carry so much (literally and emotionally), and we often forget that we deserve care too. If you’ve been looking for a gentle, supportive solution for your muscle pain, or even a little energy drink to help you get through the day—I might have found something worth checking out.

Will keep you updated once I finish the first pack. For now, it’s a little secret between me and my muscles. 😉

[deskup]

L Shaped Standing Desk – Maximize Space & Boost Productivity!

In today’s fast-paced work environment, efficiency and ergonomics are more crucial than ever. Whether working from home or in an office, the right furniture can make a world of difference in productivity, comfort, and overall well-being. An L Shaped Standing Desk is a game-changer for professionals looking to maximize space while promoting a healthier work routine.

Why Choose an L Shaped Standing Desk?

A sit stand desk is already an excellent choice for improving posture, reducing back pain, and increasing focus. However, opting for an L Shaped Standing Desk takes things up a notch by providing ample workspace, better organization, and ergonomic flexibility. Here’s why this innovative design is worth considering:

1. Space-Saving & Functional Design

The unique L-shape offers more surface area without occupying excessive room. Whether you have multiple monitors, documents, or office accessories, this design ensures everything is within easy reach while keeping your workspace clutter-free.

2. Enhances Ergonomics & Comfort

Switching between sitting and standing throughout the day can significantly reduce strain on your spine and muscles. An L Shaped Standing Desk allows seamless transitions, encouraging better posture and minimizing fatigue.

3. Increased Productivity & Focus

Studies show that alternating between sitting and standing can enhance concentration and boost energy levels. With an L-shaped design, multitasking becomes easier, as you can dedicate one section for work essentials and another for brainstorming, meetings, or even creative tasks.

4. Ideal for Dual-Monitor & Multi-Device Setups

If you work with multiple screens or require space for both a laptop and desktop, an L Shaped Standing Desk provides the perfect layout. You can efficiently switch between tasks without feeling cramped.

5. Customizable to Your Needs

Most sit stand desks come with adjustable height settings, allowing you to personalize the desk height based on your comfort. Many models also include additional storage options, keyboard trays, and cable management features.

Real Users, Real Results – What People Are Saying

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “This desk completely transformed my workspace! I love the flexibility of standing when I need to, and the extra surface space makes my workflow so much smoother.” – Sarah M.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “I was struggling with neck pain from sitting all day. Since switching to an L Shaped Standing Desk, I feel more energetic and focused. Definitely a great investment!” – James W.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “I never realized how much space I was wasting with my old desk. The L-shape makes everything accessible, and the sit-stand feature is a game-changer.” – Emily R.

FAQs – Everything You Need to Know

1. Are L Shaped Standing Desks difficult to assemble?

Most L Shaped Standing Desks come with clear instructions and take about an hour to set up. Some models may require additional tools, but the process is usually straightforward.

2. Can I use a standing desk all day?

Experts recommend alternating between sitting and standing every 30 to 60 minutes. Standing all day can be as harmful as prolonged sitting, so finding a balance is key.

3. Do these desks work for small office spaces?

Yes! An L Shaped Standing Desk is designed to optimize space, making it ideal for home offices, corners, and compact work areas.

4. Are standing desks worth the investment?

Absolutely! Investing in a sit stand desk not only improves posture and reduces health risks but also enhances productivity and long-term comfort.

Final Thoughts

An L Shaped Standing Desk is more than just a workspace upgrade—it’s an investment in your health, comfort, and efficiency. By integrating ergonomic benefits with a space-saving design, this desk style is perfect for anyone looking to elevate their work-from-home or office experience.

If you're ready to take your productivity and well-being to the next level, consider making the switch to an L Shaped Standing Desk today!

[assignmentwriterssrilanka]

The Importance of Time Management in Thesis Writing: How to Stay on Track

The Clock is Ticking: Why Time Management is Your Thesis’s Best Friend

The thesis. The word alone can conjure feelings of trepidation, excitement, and perhaps a touch of dread. It’s a monumental undertaking, a journey of in-depth research and scholarly writing that culminates in the presentation of your own unique perspective. But alongside the intellectual challenge, there’s another crucial element that determines success: time management.

Many students embarking on their thesis journey find themselves overwhelmed, wondering where to even begin. The sheer scope of the project can feel daunting, and without a structured approach, it’s easy to get lost in the weeds, struggling to stay on track. This is where effective time management steps in, acting as your compass, guiding you through the process and ensuring you reach the finish line without unnecessary stress.

Why is Time Management So Crucial for Thesis Writing?

Preventing Overwhelm: A thesis is not a sprint; it’s a marathon. Attempting to tackle it all at once is a recipe for burnout. Time management breaks the project into smaller, more manageable pieces, making the overall task feel less intimidating.

Ensuring Progress: A well-defined schedule ensures that you’re consistently making progress, even if it’s just a small amount each day. Consistent work, even in short bursts, is more effective than sporadic bursts of frantic activity. This reduces the dreaded feeling of “I haven’t done anything!”

Meeting Deadlines: The most obvious benefit of time management is meeting deadlines. Thesis writing comes with its own internal deadlines for different stages (literature review, methodology, analysis, etc.) and, of course, the final submission date. A detailed schedule helps ensure you’re on pace to meet them all, avoiding last-minute scrambles.

Reducing Stress: The stress associated with thesis writing often stems from feeling out of control. When you have a plan and are adhering to it, you’re more in control of the process, leading to reduced stress and anxiety.

Maintaining a Balanced Life: Thesis writing shouldn’t consume your entire life. Time management allows you to carve out space for other important aspects of your well-being, such as rest, social activities, and hobbies. This prevents burnout and keeps your mind fresh and focused when you’re working on your thesis.

Improved Quality: When you’re not rushed and stressed, the quality of your work improves. Time management allows you to think critically, conduct thorough research, and produce well-written chapters.

Strategies for Effective Time Management in Thesis Writing

So, how do you actually implement effective time management for your thesis? Here are some practical strategies:

Start with a Realistic Timeline: Don’t underestimate the time required for each stage. Break down your thesis into smaller tasks and create a timeline that includes deadlines for each. Be realistic about how much time each task will take, and factor in buffer time for unexpected challenges.

Use a Calendar or Planner: Whether you prefer digital calendars or physical planners, use them religiously to track your schedule and deadlines. Schedule specific blocks of time dedicated to thesis work, and treat them as important appointments.

Prioritize Tasks: Not all tasks are created equal. Identify the most critical tasks and prioritize them accordingly. Tackle the most challenging or time-sensitive tasks first, when you’re feeling most alert.

Set Daily Goals: Don’t just look at the overall project; set daily, achievable goals. This could be completing a specific section of a chapter, reading a certain number of articles, or finalizing your methodology. Small, daily wins can keep you motivated.

Avoid Multitasking: While it may seem efficient, multitasking actually reduces focus and productivity. Concentrate on one task at a time for maximum effectiveness.

Take Regular Breaks: Working non-stop can lead to burnout. Schedule regular breaks to rest your mind and recharge. This could be a short walk, a cup of tea, or a quick chat with a friend.

Minimize Distractions: Identify your biggest distractions (social media, email, etc.) and find ways to minimize them when you’re working on your thesis. Consider using website blockers or putting your phone on silent mode.

Track Your Progress: Keep track of your progress and celebrate your achievements. This will help you stay motivated and also allow you to see if your timelines need adjusting.

Be Flexible: While having a schedule is important, it’s also important to be flexible. Life happens, and sometimes things don’t go according to plan. Don’t beat yourself up over setbacks; simply adjust your schedule and move forward.

Seek Support: Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Talk to your advisor, friends, or family for support and guidance. They can offer valuable perspectives and help you stay on track.

Conclusion

Thesis writing is a demanding yet incredibly rewarding process. By mastering effective time management techniques, you can navigate this challenging journey with greater ease, reducing stress and ultimately producing a high-quality thesis you can be proud of. Remember, the key is not to just work hard, but to work smart. So, start planning, stay organized, and embrace the power of time management, and you’ll be well on your way to successfully completing your thesis and achieving your academic goals.

[travisstelzer]

Time management is a critical skill for business leaders who need to juggle multiple responsibilities, make strategic decisions, and drive their organizations toward success. Effective time management not only enhances productivity but also reduces stress and ensures that leaders can focus on what matters most. Here are some strategies to help business leaders manage their time more effectively.

Start by setting clear priorities. Identifying what tasks are most important and aligning them with your business goals is essential for effective time management. Utilize tools like the Eisenhower Matrix, which categorizes tasks into four quadrants based on their urgency and importance. This method helps you focus on high-priority tasks while delegating or postponing less critical ones. By prioritizing effectively, you ensure that your time is spent on activities that drive the most value for your business.

Create a detailed schedule and stick to it. Planning your day, week, and month in advance helps you allocate time for essential tasks and meetings. Use a digital calendar or time management app to organize your schedule, set reminders, and track deadlines. Block out dedicated time slots for specific activities, such as strategic planning, team meetings, and individual work. Having a structured schedule ensures that you stay on track and minimizes the risk of missing important deadlines.

Delegate tasks to empower your team. Effective delegation is a key component of time management, as it allows you to focus on high-priority responsibilities while empowering your team to take ownership of other tasks. Identify tasks that can be delegated and assign them to team members based on their skills and strengths. Provide clear instructions and set expectations to ensure that tasks are completed efficiently and to a high standard. Delegating not only frees up your time but also helps develop your team’s capabilities.

Avoid multitasking, which can lead to decreased productivity and errors. Focus on one task at a time to ensure that you give it your full attention and complete it efficiently. By concentrating on a single task, you can maintain high-quality work and reduce the time spent switching between tasks. Implement techniques such as time blocking, where you dedicate specific blocks of time to individual tasks to stay focused and manage your time effectively.

Utilize technology and productivity tools to streamline your workflow. There are numerous apps and tools available that can help you manage your time more effectively, from project management software and task lists to time-tracking applications. Tools like Trello, Asana, and Microsoft Teams can help you organize tasks, collaborate with your team, and track progress. Leveraging technology can enhance your efficiency and ensure that you stay organized.

Regularly review and adjust your time management strategies. Periodically assess how effectively you are managing your time and identify areas for improvement. Reflect on what’s working well and what needs adjustment, and make changes as necessary. This ongoing evaluation helps you stay flexible and adapt your strategies to meet evolving demands and priorities.

Incorporating these time management strategies into your routine can significantly improve your productivity and effectiveness as a business leader. By setting priorities, creating a structured schedule, delegating tasks, focusing on one task at a time, leveraging technology, and regularly reviewing your approach, you can manage your time more effectively and drive your business toward success.