One of the questions I’ve been getting a lot recently from friends, family, and even my professors is, “How do you manage such a busy schedule?” Honestly, I’ve always been someone who loves taking on new positions and opportunities. Right now, I’m a fourth-year student balancing a full course load, an internship, Panhellenic President, a part-time job, and serving as Senator for the College of Communication and Education. It feels like I’m constantly switching hats, but to me, that’s the fun part. So, how do I manage it all? I call it locking in. And here’s my soft guide to how you can lock in, too.
1.) Use a Planner
A planner changed my life, but only once I found the style that worked for me. Some people thrive on digital planners like Google Calendar or Notion, but for me, writing things down by hand just feels better. The important thing is making it a habit. When you check your planner daily, it becomes second nature to know what’s on your plate. So try out different methods, and find out which one works for you.
2.) Set boundaries. You can’t be everywhere all at once!
The hardest part of being busy is realizing you can’t say yes to everything. And that’s okay. Learning when to say no or even just “not right now” is a game-changer. Protect your energy, and don’t feel guilty about it. You will thank yourself later when you’re less stressed and more present for the things you do choose!
3.) Romanticize the grind
This one is my favorite. Put on your favorite playlist, grab a coffee that makes you feel like that girl, and turn even the busiest study sessions into a moment. Locking in isn’t just about getting things done, it’s about showing up for yourself in a way that feels good.
4.) Schedule your resets!
Locking in doesn’t mean burning yourself out. Plan tiny reset moments into your week, whether that’s a hot girl walk, a pilates class, or just laying in bed with your favorite show. Knowing when to pause actually helps you stay locked in longer.
5.) Lean on the people you care about
You don’t have to do it all alone. For me, having friends to study with, coworkers to laugh with, or even my big sister to lean on makes the busy days feel lighter. Locking in is easier when you have people around you who remind you why you’re working so hard in the first place. The people who care about you will always check on you, and be there when you need to get your mind off of the work you are doing.
At the end of the day, locking in is less about having the “perfect” schedule and more about building routines that make your life feel manageable and meaningful. You are not always going to have it all together, and that’s okay. What matters is that you’re showing up for yourself and giving your energy to the things that truly matter to you.
So whether it’s writing in your planner, setting those boundaries, or just sipping your iced latte while tackling a to-do list, remember that locking in is personal. Find the flow that works for you, stick to it with grace, and trust that you’re doing your best. Because honestly? That’s all anyone can ask for. And if no one’s told you today, you got this!