Final answer:
To manage her overwhelming to-do list, Dr. Richards should set realistic priorities daily, manage distractions by limiting email checks, protect personal time, take regular breaks to boost productivity, and ensure a healthy work-life balance.
Step-by-step explanation:
Dr. Richards is feeling overwhelmed with her to-do list and is looking for time management tips. One helpful strategy is to set priorities at the end of each day for the following day, ensuring that they are realistic given the time available.
Another useful approach is to manage distractions by only responding to emails a few times a day and closing the email program to avoid constant interruptions. It's also important to make a clear distinction between work and private life, protecting personal time by turning off electronic communications when not at work.
Additionally, taking regular, scheduled breaks throughout the day, such as a ten-minute break every two hours, can significantly increase productivity and overall effectiveness. Creating a buffer between work and home life, determining which household chores are necessary, delegating others, and incorporating exercise even for short periods can lead to feeling more energized and refreshed.