Stop Doing Things the Hard Way: How Educators Can Simplify and Focus on What Matters Most

 

Discover how teachers can simplify routines, save time, and focus on what matters most with smart classroom tools like EZ Scan® and Mileage Club®.

Teaching Doesn't Have to Be Hard: How to Work Smarter, Not Harder 

“When we’re accustomed to doing things the hard way, it’s like being blinded by the glare coming off the water.” 

--Greg McKeown in “Effortless: Make It Easier to Do What Matters Most”

Have you ever felt blinded by the "glare" of routine tasks - doing the same things every day, even when they take too long or no longer work effectively?

As educators, we're committed to doing things the right way. However, as Greg McKeown points out, we sometimes confuse "the right way" with "the hard way." 

Let's explore why we fall into that trap - and how to break free so we can focus on what matters most: helping our students thrive.

These three misconceptions, or illusions our brains like to believe, give us a glimpse at the underlying causes.

🚧 Myth #1: Doing It Right Means Doing It the Hard Way

We've been conditioned to believe that working harder automatically means working better. But that's not always true.

You can get the same (or even better) results by working smarter. Whether it's lesson planning, grading, or managing student programs, efficiency tools can make a huge difference.

Example:

Teachers using EZ Scan to track Mileage Club progress save hours each week by automating laps and data collection - no more clipboards or manual tallies.

Efficiency doesn't mean cutting corners. It means using your time and tools wisely.

💰 Myth #2: “We Can’t Afford to Make Things Easier”

We often think that simplifying our work - using new tools or changing our system - costs too much.

But the truth is, your time is valuable. Every extra hour spent on repetitive work has a cost, too.

Could you: 

• Reallocate part of your classroom budget for a time-saving tool?
• Partner with local businesses for sponsorship or donations?
• Trade one small expense (like that daily latte) for something that gives you hours back each week?

You don't have to choose between saving money and saving time - there's often a middle ground.

🧠 Myth #3: Learning New Technology Is Too Hard

Let's be honest - trying new tech can feel intimidating at first. But once you take the first step, most tools are far easier to learn than they seem.

Start small: explore the help articles, watch a short demo, or reach out to customer support.

If you're using Fitness Finders programs like EZ Scan, you already have access to step-by-step guides and friendly support to help you get started. Many schools find that within one week, their entire process runs smoothly, and students are more engaged.

Good technology doesn't add work - it removes it. 

The Takeaway: Make Teaching Effortless

If you don't pause and reassess, your brain will keep telling you to do things "the hard way."

Take a moment to ask yourself:

• What daily tasks take up the most time?
• Is there a tool, process, or partnership that could simplify it?
• Could your students take more ownership with self-tracking or digital rewards?

Remember: simplifying your workload isn't laziness - it's leadership. The easier your systems are, the more energy you can invest where it matters most - your students.

Try This Today

Pick one task that drains your time this week. Ask:

"What if this could be effortless?"

You might be surprised how much easier - and more enjoyable - your day becomes