By Vanessa Johns
I learned this trick from Kendra Adachi, host of my favorite podcast: “The Lazy Genius.” Each episode Kendra speaks about time and home management, helping you become “a genius about the things that matter and lazy about the things that don’t.” One of the first principles Kendra teaches is the “magic question”: What can I do now to make my life easier in the future? I’ve used this question to help me make decisions for daily tasks, shopping, and even big life events. So when I started court reporting school, I started asking myself my own version of the magic question: Does it help me become a court reporter?
There have been some easy yesses to this question: A second computer monitor, a programmable coffee maker, and a sturdy computer bag were little splurges that make a student’s life a little more comfortable. But it wasn’t long before I was faced with the reality of that question. Sometimes you have to say no to good things. Two weeks into theory I was offered a contract with the U.S. State Department. It would require a few early mornings each week, and it would really stand out on my résumé. I knew those mornings would be tough after my late-night theory classes. That contract, as incredible as it was, didn’t support my goal of becoming a court reporter. I turned it down and used those extra hours to find the balance of sleep, work, life, and learning my theory.
The tricky thing about the magic question is that a “yes” for one person is a clear “no” for another. A few months into speedbuilding, I realized I needed to change steno programs. I was terrified I would regret walking away from a program with a great reputation, enthusiastic teachers, and a flexible schedule. But when I said “yes” to a new program and completed my first day, I knew I’d made the right move. I have passed tests, connected with more students, and feel confident in my success.
How can asking the magic question help you become a court reporter? Should you spend an hour meal prepping on Sunday nights so “I’m hungry” is not an excuse to not practice? Yes, even if it’s not your favorite activity. Does attending this year’s NCRA Conference & Expo in Minneapolis help you become a court reporter? Yes, there are opportunities for learning and networking. But it’s a big time and financial commitment, and you can always catch the next one, or attend your local or state convention. How about hosting weekly game nights with your friend group? Connecting with others can be so beneficial to your mental health. Remember to take time for yourself to rest and reset for a new week.
So far the magic question has led me to make good time management choices, bringing me closer to my goal of becoming a court reporter. I have more peace and confidence in my decisions knowing every step I take is leading me toward my goal. I’m sure I’ll continue to use the magic question when I become a court reporter.
Vanessa Johns, from Louisville, Ky., is a student at SimplySteno. She can be reached at johns.vanessa@gmail.com.
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