One Step At A Time

Multiple school assignments:

• Make a list of your assignments.
• Put due dates on a calendar.
• Prioritize by due date, or get the easiest assignments out of the way first.
• Schedule time to get the work done, and stick to the schedule.
• Work on multiple assignments in one sitting by only doing part of each.
• Check tasks off the list.

Break assignments into smaller portions:

• Do a portion of assigned questions each night rather than all at once.
• Do one portion of a research paper each night: research the topic, develop an outline, and write one section at a time.
• List each portion of assignment separately so you can mark them off as you go (i.e. Algebra problems 1-10, Algebra problems 11-18).

Get the idea?  This same principle can work with your life goals, and even with your relationships.  Maybe you are frustrated with your relationship with a parent.  "Fixing your relationship" is a pretty lofty goal and would be hard to know where to start, so think about what some steps might be to work toward that goal.  You might come up with a list like the one below:

Get Along with Parents:

• Be home on time.
• Check in and let your parents, let them know where you are.
• Say please & thanks.
• Pick up after yourself.
• Try to use a pleasant tone of voice.
• Don't argue or talk back.
• Get up for school in the morning on your own.
• Give a compliment.
• Do a chore without being asked.

Focusing on doing the little things can help you to accomplish bigger tasks and goals in your life.  Get out a notebook or use a notes app on your phone and try this approach next time you are overwhelmed with a long list of things you need to do!