Hey collegiates, we all have busy schedules between classes, work, activities, eating, internships, friends, gym time and social lives. Sometimes we wonder where the time goes and how we can find all of the hours in the day to do everything we need to do.
Be careful not to spread yourself too thin. Right now, I’m taking four classes, interning three days a week, participating in four time-consuming student groups and trying to maintain relationships with my friends. It’s too much.
You don’t want your busy schedule to have an affect on your physical and emotional wellbeing. Stress can cause nutritional issues, whether you’re never hungry and not eating enough, or always hungry and eating too much. Stress can cause you to break out and gain weight as well. You don’t want to mess up your sleep cycle either, which can make you more tired, forgetful and sluggish. Don’t invite sickness by not taking care of your body.
You also don’t want your stress and busy schedule to affect your relationships with your friends, family and significant other. When I’m stressed, I tend to act out against those I care about. This isn’t cool, so I know I control my behavior and stress level. I also need to give my friends time and show I care about them and their company to keep healthy relationships.
So here are some simple tips from someone who is coping with a busy schedule. I’m definitely going to take my own advice.
1. Make a schedule
Put all of your classes, meetings, work and commitments in your calendar. Then block in time to do homework, hang with friends, do group projects, bathe, eat, go to the gym and relax. What may have looked good in your class block schedule on the Student Link might actually not look so good once you’ve factored in the extra efforts devoted to each commitment.
2. Use a Planner
Stay organized with tasks and deadlines. You could also try keeping a running to-do list. I believe a planner would be most useful so you can see everything you need to do weekly, and maybe supplement it with a daily to-do list.
3. Prioritize
You can either prioritize by deadline or importance. Just make sure you know what you need to do and when you need to do it.
4. Evaluate what is and is not important
Based on your priorities, you’ll see what is and isn’t important to you. Sometimes you need to delegate your less important tasks in order to get things done in a more effective manner. This will give your tasks a better quality of work—what you need to do and what you delegate.
5. Make changes
Sometimes you’re just doing too much—that’s okay. We all want to do so many things and it’s just not always possible. Cut out that one activity that you’re not passionate about. Drop a difficult class if you don’t have the time to commit your all to it. Cut hours at your internship or work.
6. Give yourself “me” time
Don’t forget to think of your mental wellbeing. Give yourself some time to unwind. We all need that Netflix break, chat with mom or yoga hour. If you like reading or enjoy the gym, use this as your unwinding time. Maybe you like taking long showers—whatever it is, do what makes you happy.
7. Breathe and get plenty of sleep
You’ll work it out. Some days or weeks are busier than others, but you’ll always get through it. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep and drinking enough water. Your brain and body will thank you for the rest and be able to better power you throughout the day.
You can do it! I believe in you (and myself)!