As a Speech-Language Pathologist in a school setting, balancing your work and personal life can be challenging. With therapy sessions, paperwork, meetings, and student needs, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But with a few simple time management strategies from the speech classroom experts at Spotter, you can regain control of your day!
1. Prioritize the “Big Three”
Focus on the top three tasks that are most important for the week. This might include completing evaluations, meeting IEP goals, or planning therapy sessions. By narrowing your focus, you can make sure you’re tackling your most important tasks first.
Spotter Tip: Use the “two-minute rule” for quick tasks. If something takes less than two minutes—like responding to an email—do it immediately!
2. Batch Similar Tasks
Group similar tasks together so you aren’t always switching gears. For example, plan all your therapy sessions in one block, handle paperwork in another, and set specific times during your day to respond to emails.
Spotter Tip: Schedule these blocks on your calendar to keep your day organized.
3. Use Technology to Stay Organized
Use online tools to simplify your workday. Google Calendar can manage your schedule, while apps like OneNote help keep therapy notes and ideas in one place. Other task management apps like Trello can break down bigger projects into smaller pieces.
Spotter Tip: Sync your apps so everything is accessible in one place!
4. Set Boundaries
Establish clear boundaries for work hours and personal time. Avoid checking emails outside of work, and make time for self-care, hobbies and social activities that help you recharge.
Spotter Tip: Use an auto-responder in your email to make your availability clear.
5. Embrace Progress Over Perfection
Not every week will be perfectly balanced, and that’s okay! Aim for progress, not perfection, and celebrate small wins.
With these time management hacks, you can create a healthy balance between your professional and personal life.
Looking for a New Speech-Language Pathology Job?
Spotter Staffing has amazing in-school SLP careers that are hiring right now! Click this link to check out the positions we are currently accepting applications for, or click here to speak directly to an expert recruiter who can help you navigate the job search. We can’t wait for you to Join the Herd!