Photo courtesy of unsplash.com
In high school I was always a pretty organized student. I had my color-coded binders with folders and pens to match. However, once I started college all of my organizational skills seemed to vanish. Here are a few tips on how I turned my hot mess back into an organizer’s dream.
1. Get a planner that you are actually going to use
This was a game-changer for me. I was constantly buying new planners and using them for about a month before I gave up. Newsflash: trying to keep up with all your due dates and deadlines is not easy without an actual calendar or planner.
I recently discovered The Happy Planner by Me and My Big Ideas. The pages are all removable, there are a ton of packages that you can get to help with budgeting or big projects and you can customize the entire look of your planner.
Unlike many other planners, they come in multiple sizes and styles. I personally have the large planner (definitely recommended for busier people) with the vertical daily layout.
I use my planner for everything. I keep track of all projects, meetings, due dates, my work schedule, and any reminders or positive affirmations I may need. It is also a really good excuse to buy super cute pens and stickers!
You can get your Happy Planner at http://www.meandmybigideas.com/create365-thehappyplanner/ or visit your local Michael’s store for other ideas!
2. Have an actual study/homework area
I have an extremely bad habit of attempting to do my homework in my bed. This usually leads to an unplanned four hour nap and no motivation to do anything else.
I decided that I needed to upgrade my homework space. I bought a new desk (thank goodness for $20 desks at Walmart) and some organizational containers to help minimize the clutter.
Having a designated space just to do my work was a major motivation booster. Make the space yours! I bought some cute pen holders, and a new Bluetooth speaker for my “focusing” music.
3. Keep a clean room!
Keeping a clean desk space is important, but keeping a clean room is just as helpful! Having a clean room leaves you with less distractions and plenty of space to get up and stretch for breaks! It is way easier to focus on your assignments when you do not have a laundry basket of clean clothes waiting to be put away.
4. Give yourself breaks!
It is really important to make sure you do not overwhelm yourself. I know sometimes you get into a groove and crank out three assignments consecutively, but do not overdo it! I try to give myself a 15-30 minute break between assignments so I do not wear myself too thin too quickly. Conserve your brain power! Eat a snack, paint your nails, or watch an episode of your favorite show on Netflix!
Staying organized and on top of your assignments and life can be super overwhelming. Especially when you are a young adult and just getting out there! These tips have been super helpful for myself and I hope they help you too in your daily lives!