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Too much is too much

But what is too much?
Lately I've been considering how to be a better reporter. I'm wrestling with how to cover my large beat, please several bosses and continue to work on my writing.
Some peope may say that I have too much on my plate. But, I like having tons of things going on - it allows me to feel challenged (and not get bored) and allows me to multi-task.
But, I'm trying to make sure that I keep my work in check by prioritizing my tasks. I especially seem tender to straying off onto web projects.
Any of you share the same questions? Do you have answers? Please share!
Published Thursday, June 21, 2007 3:17 PM by SonyaSmith
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Comments

# re: Too much is too much

Thursday, June 21, 2007 10:44 PM by ElysseJames
I think you should tackle the Web projects. It will be more important to have that experience later in our 'new media' world, and will show your bosses that you're innovative and ahead of the game. But you really have to know for yourself how much you can really handle. Good luck!

# re: Too much is too much

Friday, June 22, 2007 12:26 AM by John Asbury
I'd always rather be busy than reaching for stories. Especiailly with cops, yu either feast or starve on what's happening and then you have to look for the enterprise stuff.
Relish the breaking news while you can. Unfortunately it's a matter of priorities, especially in these days of shrinking staffs. What stories need to be covered and what needs to be done first.
I know how you feel though, it seems like I went a couple months wih nothing going on and then in the last week I've had three breaking A1's and six shootings.
Naturally the editors aren't going to be realistic or logical. They want ten things done yesterday and it's not possible. You just have to level with them and ask them which they want first. Communication with the bosses is the only way you'll all keep your sanity.
Good Luck!

# re: Too much is too much

Friday, June 22, 2007 9:35 PM by SonyaSmith
Thanks so much guys (and gals)!
Elysse, that's a great idea for me to focus on new media stuff - that's the future and I should (when needing to choose) choose to do the new media stuff (within reason).
John, thanks so much for sharing your experiences and ideas. Your post reminds me that I hate being slow and love being busy - so I should just be grateful.
Also - I met today with a reporter at my newspaper who I really look up to and admire. She and I met for coffee - and not only was it relaxing to just sit for a second, she offered me great advice and really listened to my situation. Just her listening helped relieve me - and she offered some great advice on setting priorities so that I don't get sent to a crazy house.
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