Focus

These past two weeks I've been focusing on organizing an officers meeting for a professional association.  I've had about six months to get it together but until the panic adrenaline kicked in, I could not wrap my head around the issues.

Now, losing sleep, thinking about the issues while doing other things, I do feel on top of the issues. You can never predict what will come up but going into the meeting I feel prepared, focused.

I wonder how I can improve my focus earlier.

It's Been a While

Back in March I had to take over at short notice in chairing a conference. Then two more months of chairing the big university committee and trying to plan for chairing an association. It's been a bit stressful and mind-numbing.

So what should I expect of myself when my mind is numbed? I feel guilty for not doing more but it is part of the same rhythm I've experienced for nearly three decades. After commencement my adrenal glands go on hiatus.

I should try to make sure that I do things that make me feel good about myself and stop self-flagellating.

Past the Panic

For a number of reasons I felt overwhelmed the last two weeks with work. Part of it was the academic calendar---I had less time after classes ended than usual. Part of it was taking on some more responsibilities for my professional association. A large part of it was feeling that my being behind was holding back other folk from getting things done.

For whatever reason (hard work?) I've gotten to the point where I am more on top of things. I think that teaching probably helps moderate my anxiety.

So Much To Do

In December I had a tipping point where it started taking too long to figure out what to do next from my to-do list. I am grateful that I have a lighter teaching load this coming semester but it still feels overwhelming, wondering what crucial things are remaining undone. I wake up in the middle of night trying to solve the problem half-awake. Sub-optimal.

Been Busy

It's been almost two months since I posted last. I've had to perform triage on a daily basis, and to be blunt, I've put my responsibilities to loved ones, to students, to colleagues before myself.

I'm weary. I can see the end of the semester and feel gratified with what I have done but I am bone weary.

Public Speaking

I gave a very brief report this morning at a meeting of our Trustees. Most of the presentation was in writing, distributed ahead of time. That is tedious to compile but not particularly deep.

As is my wont I gave a two-minute summary of process and asked for questions.  I used to be terrified of that kind of public speaking, and I'm not complacent now, but I seem to do it well and the fear isn't there.

I've gotten much better at figuring out what listeners want.  I've also gotten good at constructing some kind of hook or comment at the beginning that is unexpected, to make sure and engage the listeners and grab their attention.

Meetings, meetings, more meetings

Our university's Planning Week has a large number of overlapping meetings.  Most of the planning has actually occurred before this week; it's more a matter of telling everyone what the plans are.

The meetings aren't bad, but they're not what I came here for. I'm looking forward to my first class next week.