As someone currently juggling two majors, I understand how important (and often difficult) time management can be. However, I have learned a few tricks that help me make the most of my time while still having room for things other than school, and I’m here to share them with you. Â
Planning, planning and more planning
In my opinion, this is the most important thing you can do to manage time effectively and the best part is that there are so many ways to do it. Â
Personally, I make a list at the beginning of the week of all the things I have to do and put them in my notes app on my laptop, organized according to which day I want them to be done by. For example, if I have math homework due on a Wednesday, I may put it under Tuesday so that I don’t feel rushed to get it completed the day of. Â
The best part about planning and organizing assignments is that there are so many ways to do it. Whether it be a calendar on the wall, a planner book or even a sticky note (and yes, I know people who love this), find what works best for you. Â
Give yourself some breathing room
There’s no doubt that things come up during the week that make it hard to get things done. This brings me to my next tip — giving yourself room to adjust. Â
Wake up sick? Exhausted? Just having a rough day? No matter what the case may be, sometimes a day off is needed.
I’ve had a few rough days myself, which is why I try to plan my workload so that I’m not on a time crunch to finish something by midnight the night it’s due. Â
What works for me is aiming to finish assignments the day before they’re due and allocating time to make it happen. Not only does this reduce my stress about due dates, but I also know that even if something does come up the next day, I can take the time I need to without worrying about it affecting my grades. Â
It may make the next day a little more busy, but if you stay on top of it, it won’t drag you down. Â
Study Buddy
One of the biggest things I struggle with is procrastination. However, I found that if I go to study with someone, I actually get things done instead of just sitting on my phone or messing around. Â
I love studying with my best friend. Even though we’re in different classes doing different work, something about having someone else there makes it enjoyable. We hold each other accountable, take breaks together and celebrate the little victories of turning in assignments that felt endless. Â
I have to note, however, that it can be slightly difficult to actually start working when I’m with her. Even though we spend a good amount of time talking, once we start on assignments we can easily spend a good two or three hours focused. Â
For me, having a study buddy encourages me to get things done. So, grab a good friend, find a study spot and get to work. Â
Take a break
College can be stressful; classes are difficult, there’s usually a heavy workload and on top of all that, you have to think about the future. Even though it’s easy to become consumed by academic responsibilities it’s important to remember that you are so much more than your classes. Â
When I start to feel overwhelmed with everything, I try to shut my laptop, put away my homework and do something that I love. For me, listening to music, calling friends from home or hanging out with friends here help me to reset and relax. Â
I know it can hard to separate yourself from the stress that comes from academics. Even though it’s difficult, it’s important to remember that you are so much more than a grade in a class. Â
I’ve found that balance is key; yes, get your work done, but also have fun during your time here. You’re doing amazing things and working so hard, you deserve some time for you.Â
Hopefully, some of the things that help me to not feel so overwhelmed with school can help you as well. Just remember that even though it may feel difficult, I know that you can succeed in what you’re pursuing. Don’t doubt yourself, you may be doing better than you think you are.