WHEN WORKING SMARTER WORKS, IT LOOKS LIKE THIS

/in /by

Cam* came to our first session with a lot on their mind–and no confidence that they were going to pass a science course that was key to getting into their field. They just didn’t have enough time to get everything done! The term was already a month underway, and the grades were not expected to be good.

When I heard everything that Cam had on the burner, I agreed. We couldn’t get more than 168 hours in a week, and there really was a lot to get done.

So we focussed on three areas:

  • Goal focus–Cam’s, not mine. Cam targeted for a C+ in the course.
  • Getting the most from the time that was available for the course–Was Cam working efficiently and effectively, getting the most from the time that was available? Cam was working hard, but maybe it was time to see if that meant working smart.
  • Mindset–Keeping it going. 

Once Cam set the goal, we tore the schedule down to the basics and built it up again. When were they most effective? Where could twofers fit in? How much time was really needed for sleeping, eating, and breaks? Were self-care and other academic courses allowed for?

Then as Cam implemented the plan, we adapted what needed changing. We focussed on ways to study and get assignments done more efficiently and effectively: how to spread out the material, chunking, breaking down assignments from goal to part task, using different tips and techniques for learning.

Mindset was critical, as it is for all of us. Where did anxiety get in the way? What exercises would deal with text anxiety? What regular review would mark any differences gained from working and revising the plan? What outside resources would be useful? What reinforcers along the way kept Cam on plan, or back on plan? What was the reward for success to look forward to?

As the weeks went by, Cam began to see how more and more work was getting done. Not every assignment got the targeted grade, but the motivation from focusing on a winning mindset kept Cam on the plan when a week wasn’t perfect, or even when a death in the family required an extension.

By the end of term, Cam’s stress level was down. Cam now believes that achieving academic targets is doable.

And Cam exceeded the original goal by gaining a B in the critical science course!

I’d like to hear about your challenges with overload, and explore how we can customize a program to move you toward your goals. Connect with me here: [email protected]  

*Anonymized for confidentiality.

The information in this blog cannot take the place of support from your own mental health professional or community health resources. Reach out to them. And IF YOU ARE IN CRISIS PLEASE DIAL 911.