Lesson Objectives

• Understand how to approach breaks with intention rather than anxiety

• Learn to set manageable goals that align with longer-term objectives

• Develop a framework for consistent progress, regardless of schedule changes

Do Now

Before we get started, take a moment to ask ChatGPT this prompt for reflection:

I want to make the most of my upcoming break/free time. Help me create a balanced plan that includes both rest and productivity. Consider these aspects:

My top 3 long-term goals are:
1. [insert your goals]
2. 
3. 

I typically feel [energized/drained] after breaks

I would like to plan for [X] hours of focused work per day.

I have [X] days of break coming up.

Provide a structured daily schedule that alternates between focused work sessions and genuine rest periods, ensuring I make progress without burning out. Ask me clarifying questions until you are 95% certain that you can provide me with expert-level guidance on this task.

What We’re Working with Today

Today we'll explore how to transform our relationship with breaks and free time, moving from the anxiety of either over-planning or under-planning to a balanced approach that serves our bigger goals while honoring our need for rest.

I Do, We Do, You Do

I Do: Here’s What I Created

This week, I find myself approaching mid-winter break with a completely different mindset than in past years. Previously, breaks would trigger one of two responses: either setting unrealistic goals that led to disappointment, or avoiding goals altogether and later regretting the lack of direction.

Well, now that I approach every day as a day to achieve small goals, a week off doesn’t feel like this puzzle to work out. It’s just another opportunity to work towards my goals. Ali Abdaal is a productivity YouTuber. Check him out if you’re looking to dive deeper into productivity. All I can say is his concept of quarterly reviews has changed my perspective on goal-setting.

Tools I used:

• Quarterly review goal-setting framework

• Progress tracking system

• Alignment check between daily actions and long-term objectives

• Good ‘ole ChatGPT, my AI Life Coach (I prefer ChatGPT to Claude or any other LLM in this case because ChatGPT has memory across all your previous saved chats)

We Do: Let’s Build This Together

Follow this step-by-step guide to transform your approach to breaks and free time:

1. Identify your current relationship with breaks

   • Do you tend to over-plan or under-plan?

   • What emotions come up when you think about unstructured time?

   • How do you usually feel at the end of a break?

2. Define your bigger picture

   • List your top 3 long-term goals

   • Break these down into monthly milestones

   • Identify weekly actions that contribute to these goals

3. Create a flexible framework

   • Set 1-3 priority tasks for each day

   • Include built-in buffer time for unexpected opportunities

   • Designate specific times for rest and rejuvenation

4. Implement a progress tracking system

   • Use a simple checklist or journal

   • Track both accomplishments and energy levels

   • Adjust your approach based on what you observe

You Do: Your Mini Task for the Week

Now it's your turn! Take these concepts and apply them to your next break or period of free time. Start by using this powerful prompt with ChatGPT:

I want to create a strategic plan for achieving my big goals this year. Help me break them down into actionable steps:

My top 3 goals for the year are:
1. [List your 3 major goals]
2. 
3. 

For each goal, please:

1. Break it down into quarterly milestones (Q1-Q4; today is [date], please treat today as day 1 of Q1)
2. Suggest monthly targets that build towards each quarterly milestone
3. Create a weekly action framework that includes:
- 2-3 high-impact tasks
- Key habits to develop
- Progress metrics to track

Design a monthly review system that helps me:
- Evaluate progress towards quarterly goals
- Identify what's working and what needs adjustment
- Celebrate small wins
- Plan the next month's priorities

Additionally, provide a template for a weekly planning session that helps me stay aligned with these larger goals while maintaining flexibility for day-to-day responsibilities. Please ask me clarifying questions until you are 95% certain you can provide me with expert-level guidance on this task.

Think-Pair-Share

• Think of 3 ways you can make your breaks more intentional without overwhelming yourself

• Pair up with a colleague to discuss your experiences with break-time productivity

• Share your insights and strategies with our community of educators and connect with other Edumators who are transforming their classrooms with AI and automation.

Exit Ticket

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