When you realize that you have two prelims, a presentation, and a paper due in the next week, it’s really easy to stress out. But by managing your time well, you can avoid this stressful situation!
1. Keep a schedule. Visually blocking out your time helps you clear your mind, so you’re not worried about forgetting things, and it also gives you a good idea of the amount of work you have to do. Some people like to just have a running to-do list that they keep updating, while others need the visual aid of scheduling dates and deadlines on a calendar – experiment until you find what works for you.
2. Prioritize. Stephen R. Covey, author of the book The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, wrote, “The key is not to prioritize what’s on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities.” When the semester gets tough, it helps to know what’s most important to you. Organizing things by deadlines lets you know what to work on first, and it’s always wise to keep in mind how much each assignment is actually going to weigh in your overall final grade for the course. Keep in mind that you’re only human! Sometimes, you’ll have to let non-crucial things go if you want to do well in what really matters.
3. Find a good working environment. A work environment without distractions is important if you need to get work done in a timely manner. The library is always a good place to study, and often just surrounding yourself with people who are doing work makes you motivated to work too. If you keep getting distracted by Facebook and YouTube, turn off your internet. There is also software available, such as the SelfControl application for Macs, that allows you to block certain websites for set periods of time.
4. Expect the unexpected. Always give yourself more time than you think you’ll need to complete a task! People often underestimate the time it will take to get things done, and if you don’t give yourself enough time, you won’t be able to take advantage of exciting opportunities that come up unexpectedly. “There are events that you didn’t know existed until people invite you at the last minute, and you’re like, ‘Oh, but I have work…’” Tammie ’15 says. By giving yourself some extra wiggle room in your schedule, you have a buffer zone in case something takes you longer than you expected or your friends suddenly invite you to go out to a movie or play a game.
5. Don’t skimp on sleep. If you’re one of the numerous Cornellians that have taken PSYCH 1101 with Professor Maas, you already know the importance of sleep. Getting enough sleep (that’s 8 to 9 hours of sleep each night!) lets you think more clearly and be more productive while your awake. It’s a win-win situation – getting sleep helps you be more productive, and being productive gives you time to get more sleep. And you know how you just feel better after you’re well-rested? A positive attitude will be a great help when you’re sitting down to do that problem set or write that essay. Next time you think you’re gearing up to pull an all-nighter, ask yourself if it’s really worth it. Your health should always be a priority, especially when you’re stressed.