With finals approaching and our final assignments pilling up, time management is more important now than ever. Fortunately, HCUBC is here to help! Here are our top 10 time management tips:
1. Write a to-do list
A To-Do List helps you keep track of all the things you need to accomplish. Personally, I like to have weekly to-do lists as I find that having a general idea of what my week looks like helps me mentally prepare to succeed.
2. Add a time-limit to each task
Having a time limit for each task usually helps you be more productive. Rank each task according to its importance and the amount of time it will take you to complete. Then, add a time limit for each task, and keep true to that allotted time. By timing each task you will find that you’re likely to use your time more effectively.
3. Find the perfect study space
When trying to do work, the environment you’re working in is important. Some people like background noise and work more effectively at a coffee shop; others need extreme silence. Make sure to be in an environment where you can concentrate on your work.
4. Shut everything off while you work
This includes Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, the news, your phone, your window, your fridge… Just kidding, but try and minimize your distractions! You’ll be amazed at how productive you can be just by saying no to unnecessary technology for an hour.
5. Sleep
Because you can’t be efficient when you’re tired. Try and get a good night rest, or have a 15 minute long nap during the day if you’re feeling sleepy and don’t seem to get much done. You will feel refreshed even after a short nap!
6. Give yourself enough breaks
Because breaks help you keep motivated!
7. Eat smart
When you’re stressed and with too many things to do, it is not only important to feed the mind (aka nap, take breaks and meditate), but also to feed your palate. Eating healthy but yummy foods during stressful times can help you remain sane and is an excellent thing to look forward to while working hard.
8. Learn to say ‘no’
Or you might end up like this poor kid
Every decision you make is an exchange: either you write an essay, or you do your French homework; either you go to that party, or you take the extra time to finish your group project contribution. It is important to understand when you’ve had enough (enough studying or enough partying) and learn to say no. Saying no is a powerful tool: editing your research paper for the fifth time or going out with friends? Perhaps it’s better to leave the homework for tomorrow and take a break.
9. Meditate
There is no better way to de-stress than listening to calming music. Especially during stressful times of the year, it is important to take between 10 minutes and an hour off your day to meditate. You’ll be amazed at how much meditating can help in reducing your stress!
10. Socialize
Your friends are in the same situation as you: they don’t have enough time for everything. It is still important to make time for them and value their friendship. This is especially true during university, when the four years you spend go by really fast and you will most likely all end up in different cities.
Hope this helps, HCUBC cuties!