Writing Mojo I (it works for lesson plans too)
I'm amazed at how my productivity--and attitude--have improved since I started using a timer for writing sessions.I write more in less time, and I'm less tired when the session is over. Plus, I can sustain long periods of productivity with less physical and mental fatigue, eye strain, and back pain.
Here's how it works: On the advice of the good folks at Academic Ladder, I downloaded InstantBoss, a free program that allows you to decide in advance how many writing sessions you will complete, how long each session will be, and how long your breaks will be.
You start the timer and begin writing. When the timed session is over, a pop-up menu offers the choice of taking a break or continuing to work. If you take a break, a pop-up appears--and your computer groans (saying, "Oh, man!")--to remind you to start the timer and begin writing again.
Taking regular breaks in one of the things that contributes to comfort and fluency as a writer (see Robert Boice). What a difference it makes!
This practice has made classroom preparation more bearable for me, too--stretching, resting my eyes, and taking a short amble around the courtyard keeps my energy and attention high.
Some days I do best with 20-minute sessions and 5-minute breaks. Other days--particularly when writing a first draft--I do best with 40-minute sessions and 10-minute breaks.
.: Posted by Duane Bidwell on Wednesday, August 27, 2008