Doom Scrolling vs. Homework: Who will win?

 Doom scrolling...  We are all guilty in one way or another, and I am here to admit my guilt. As much as I would love to say that the majority of my time spent using technology is useful and school-related, it really isn't.  I am a sucker for a rabbit hole on TikTok or Instagram Reels, and also just so happen to LOVE to procrastinate.  I feel as if it fuels my creativity and ability to finish a project or assignment in a timely and quality manner.  Contrary to popular belief, spending more time on either of those things has never proven more successful for me, which is a whole other habit I need to shake, but unrelated.  

I personally rely on my good pal, Canva, to keep myself organized in a teaching setting.  Having slides to go along with my lesson plan is a super effective way I have found to keep myself organized and keep the lesson in order while I teach.  Another way I keep myself organized through teaching and classes is to use a Google Sheet, which looks something like this, to check off which assignments I have completed.  It also lists what class they are for, due dates, the weight of the assignment, and whatever other relevant information could be needed for that assignment.  Another Google feature that I use is a customizable monthly planner template that has my class times and due dates in it, as well as breaks and all the days for my 3-week block in March.  For the more conventional approach, I also have a hardcover paper day planner that I use on a day-to-day basis in my personal, school, and teaching life.  

In 2026, I am really going to try and work on my social media usage.  Like I said, TikTok gets me, but I would love to use my technology in a more productive way all the time, not just at the last minute to get readings and work done.  I am hopeful that maybe EDTC will show me how I can use my tech devices in the most productive ways possible so that I am not losing time to doomscrolling anymore.  Homework needs to win the battle, and I will be in search of more strategies to help myself, and hopefully others, find the balance between social media rabbit holes and productivity.