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In an enlightening talk, Jeff von Munkwitz-Smith, University Registrar at the University of Connecticut, shares his insights on managing workload, coping with stress, and maintaining balance in a demanding role. Key strategies include mastering time management, delegating tasks, and keeping a sense of humor. Emphasizing the importance of preparation before taking time off, he advises on how to ensure your department stays on track in your absence. With practical tips and a positive outlook, this session inspires leaders to thrive even when juggling multiple responsibilities.
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On being in two places at once Jeff von Munkwitz-Smith University Registrar University of Connecticut
Categories of advice • Handling the workload • Avoiding having your department fall apart while your away • Coping with the stress
Handling the workload • Get really good at time management! • Keep track of what needs to be done: both the immediate “critical path” items and the tasks a bit farther out. • Understand that not everything worth doing is worth doing right.
Workload … • Just say “No”, to your boss, to your staff, and to pesky friends who want you to speak at conferences. • Delegate, Delegate, Delegate! • Know what you’re good at and what you’re not and concentrate on the former.
Still more workload … • Get out of your office to work on the project. • Limit interruptions. • Have an understanding family.
Avoiding having your department fall apart while you’re away • Before you start, prepare your staff. • Make sure someone always knows where you are and when you’ll be back.
Falling apart … • Accept that life goes on without you: you can’t be at every meeting or be involved in every decision. • Delegate, Delegate, Delegate some more!
Coping with the stress • Recognize that you’re going to have good days and bad days and try not to get too excited about either one.
More stress … • Remember why you’re doing it: to borrow a phrase from the Civil Rights Movement, “keep your eyes on the prize”. • Have someone you can commiserate with, vent to, bounce ideas off of, get good advice from, etc.
And even more stress! • Develop a thick skin. • Exercise, eat properly, and get enough sleep. • Take vacations. • Have fun!
One final thought: Maintain a positive attitude! • “Think you can. Think you can’t. Either way, you’re right.” – Henry Ford • Luke Skywalker – “I don’t believe it!”Yoda – “That is why you fail.” – George Lucas