Since the last entry, everything has been the same and my plan has not changed. I have continued to use the reinforcement of rewarding myself with 2 dollars every time I check my planner. With this, it is only positive reinforcements and I secluded all negativity of any punishments. Just like I stated in my last post, this routine has kept me up to date and in track with everything I have to do, as well as the busy life style we all have to accommodate to as community college students who are trying our best to get involved. I made a table to check off every time I checked my planner and whether or not I have payed myself. However, that was the initiation process. Recently, I have not been updating it as much because I feel like there are not much of a use for it anymore since I automatically check my planner on time at least twice a day, and that doesn't even include the times that I open it to write down my assignments or any upcoming event. The new planner that I bought a month ago is also very effective. Instead of writing a bunch of stuff I have to do in a open space, I also havea time chart for everyday so that I can write down what I have to do or events that I need to attend next to the time slot.
I have also visited a new website about attitude change:
Attitude Change This is very helpful in seeing how I can further change attitudes. For me, I think I have to change from the inside out in order to produce a lasting change. The website also talks about thinking over a thought that correlates or matches with internal wants. Since I want to be more focused, on tract, and successful, I am willing to change my attitude and willing to make a change for the better.
As I stated before, operant conditioning theory works and positive reinforcement really helps but it is still short term simply because your changing an action and not the motives for that action. I mean, for example, I can be trained to smile even if I am having a completely crappy day but I can still smile. Yes, I will do it but eventually, when I am not actually thinking to smile, I will put on a sad or miserable face because that is exactly how I feel. However, if I can alter my perspective on how I see things, then maybe I will have a more optimistic viewpoint and therefore be naturally happy and I will smile without noticing. The same concept goes for checking my planner. I will do something if I like it. Knowing that checking my planner keeps me on tract and helps me finish assignments ahead of time, I will like and do more of it naturally.
Kailin's comment was very interesting when she said "when its hot, think of ice cubes. when you open your planner, think of benefits." Mind over matter is indeed the most powerful thing. I will continue to strive to change my attitude and with the additional reinforcements, I am determined to turn my assignments on time and put a dent on procrastination.
3 comments:
Wow~ sounds like you're on the right track (:! I remember when i used to get planners at the start of the semester, I would get so into it and be all "I'm going to be so organized this time!!" and then i end up drawing all over it hahaha. But now that I'm in college, teachers just give you the schedule at the start and expect you to come in prepared for classes. ):< No one reminds you to do anything anymore haha. We're all grown up now! We have to be responsible for our own actions now ;)
Preach it! haha You sound very motivated and sound like you're doing great, so GOOD JOB! I read your article and I find it interesting how it's easier to change a perspective if it goes along with society's expectations. However, in your case, is it society's norms to check a planner? I know it's a good habit but the average Joe probably doesn't check it. Food for thought. =]
You're right it's easier to change your attitude first. I think I actually have read an article where there was an experiment with "naturally smart kids" and "average" kids.
They were both given really tough exams and the "naturally-smart" kids actually did worse than the "average" kids. The "average" kids were used to being given challenging problems and had a "trying" attitude. The "naturally smart" kids were lazy and just did the minimum required in life. They didn't have a great attitude and gave up easily.
I think having a more positive attitude, even if you have to force yourself, goes a long way. You might just transform from a pessimist into an optimist!
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