Published: Sept. 20, 2022

systems (n.):  a set of principles or procedures according to which something is done; an organized framework or method.

Mindfully designing systems supports your success in college. A system allows you to handle a bigger workload and more easily manage stress. When you feel anxious or overwhelmed, take a few minutes to assess your system. A system has three parts: raw ingredients, workflow, and outcomes. You probably have a natural workflow that you deploy to execute your work. To develop a stronger system that responds not only to your natural flow but also to the demands of ENVD coursework, consider the following:

  1. What is your desired outcome?
  2. What are the inputs or raw ingredients?
  3. What is the natural flow that you want to see happen?
  4. What structures do you need to put in place to be organized?
  5. What are the decision points? Pain points?
  6. What do you need to remind yourself to follow through?
  7. What is currently working?
  8. What is NOT currently working?  

Adapted from Academic Life Coaching Workbook – College Edition 

To practice this strategy or explore others, contact Ashley Chadwick, ENVD academic coach!