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Week 1 – Blog Post
Higher academic degrees require several education and non-educational strategies to achieve higher academic success. Healthcare professionals who are currently enrolled in a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree know the struggles of a DNP student. I am to connect with my DNP fellows to share my tips for a successful nursing journey ahead. If you are beginning your nursing journey like me, then this blog post is a must-read for you.
Effective Strategy
One effective strategy that has empowered me both academically and professionally is the use of time blocking for planning and time management. This approach involves allocating specific periods throughout the day or week to focus on different tasks, allowing me to maintain a structured schedule that accommodates my studies and work commitments (Watts et al., 2022). For instance, during my post-master certification program for PMHNP, I blocked out dedicated hours in the early morning and evening to work on coursework and assignments. This strategy ensured that I had uninterrupted time to focus on my studies while also managing my professional responsibilities as a registered nurse.
Professionally, as a behavioral health case manager for Medicare, I handle a variety of tasks daily, including patient consultations, care coordination, and administrative duties. To effectively manage these tasks, I use time blocking to organize meetings with interdisciplinary teams, document patient progress, and review case files without feeling overwhelmed (Miguel et al., 2021). By categorizing my tasks into distinct time frames, I reduce distractions and ensure that I meet both clinical and administrative deadlines efficiently.
This time-blocking strategy has proven invaluable in my academic pursuits as well. While working towards my PMHNP certification and future DNP degree, I apply this technique to ensure a balance between academic readings, clinical practicum, and exam preparation (Cleary et al., 2023). For example, I dedicate afternoons to studying and researching while using weekends for in-depth reading or long-term projects. This method also helps with breaking down larger tasks into manageable chunks, ensuring that I stay on track with long-term goals such as dissertation work or certification exams (Nnadozie & Khumalo, 2023).
Additionally, I integrate effective technology use by utilizing tools such as Google Calendar and Microsoft Planner. These platforms enable me to set reminders, create task lists, and visually track my progress, which is essential for maintaining organization (Akcil et al., 2021). Overall, time blocking, paired with efficient use of technology, has helped me stay disciplined, prioritize tasks, and maintain a balance between my professional obligations and academic goals, ensuring success in my current PMHNP program and the eventual completion of my DNP degree.
Strategy Not Utilized
One strategy I still need to implement is the Pomodoro Technique, which involves breaking work into short, focused intervals (typically 25 minutes) followed by short breaks. I have always preferred longer study sessions, but this approach could be beneficial in maximizing productivity while preventing burnout (Biwer et al., 2023). Given my tendency to become engrossed in tasks for extended periods, the Pomodoro Technique could help me manage fatigue and sustain energy levels, especially during lengthy assignments or study sessions for my PMHNP program.
This method aligns well with my strengths, such as strong focus and attention to detail, but addresses an area where I need improvement: pacing. I often find myself working continuously until a project is completed, which can lead to mental exhaustion. The structured breaks provided by the Pomodoro Technique encourage me to step away from work briefly, allowing my mind to recharge and return to tasks with renewed focus.
For instance, I could apply this technique during intensive study periods for my DNP program, setting specific goals to complete readings or practice questions within each interval. The frequent breaks ensure that I remain mentally sharp and prevent the cognitive overload that can occur from lengthy, uninterrupted sessions. By incorporating the Pomodoro technique, I could strike a balance between focus and rest, ultimately improving my productivity and well-being (Schwartz & Solomon, 2022).
References
Akcil, U., Uzunboylu, H., & Kinik, E. (2021). Integration of technology to learning-teaching processes and Google Workspace tools: A literature review.
Sustainability,
13(9), 1-13.
Biwer, F., Wiradhany, W., Egbrink, M. G. A. oud., & Bruin, A. B. H. de. (2023). Understanding effort regulation: Comparing “pomodoro” breaks and self‐regulated breaks.
British Journal of Educational Psychology,
93(S2), 353-367.
Cleary, K., Samarawickrema, G., Ambler, T., Loton, D., Krcho, T., & McCluskey, T. (2023). Transitioning to emergency remote teaching in A block model curriculum: A case study of academics’ experiences in an Australian university.
British Journal of Educational Studies,
72(1), 63-84.
Miguel, S. F. S., Robertson, M., & McDavid, L. (2021). Using strategies from physical training of athletes to develop self-study programs for veterinary medical students.
Journal of Veterinary Medical Education,
49(3), 323-331.
Nnadozie, V., & Khumalo, S. (2023). Self-Agency and academically high-performing students’ success: Towards a praxis for academic support in one South African university.
Journal of University Teaching and Learning Practice,
20(1), 1-12.
Schwartz, A. W., & Solomon, S. R. (2022). Finding and doing what matters most: Five productivity strategies for physicians in academic medicine.
Medical Teacher,
45(2), 123-127.
Watts, G. W., Garfield, T. A., & Davis, M. T. (2022). Experiences, supports, and strategies of first-generation college students.
College Teaching,
71(1), 1-11.
