I always start out the semester with dreams of getting ahead on assignments and studying weeks before each exam. It goes well for roughly three days until I begin procrastinating and spend more time studying Netflix than my econ notes. I am more determined than ever to make this semester as stress-free as possible, so I have come up with a plan to get ahead and stay ahead on my schoolwork and extracurricular obligations.
1. Set Realistic Goals
While it is important to push yourself during the semester, make sure your goals are achievable. The goals you set should motivate you, not stress you out. I like to set two or three big goals for each semester, and then break them down into smaller ones. For example, a goal of mine this semester is to get ahead in my Math Empo class and finish it early. To achieve that, I have a goal of taking two quizzes every week. When broken down, each goal seems less daunting and more possible. Check out this article for some ideas for goals to have!
2. Use a Planner
I have always loved the idea of being a full-on planner person, the kind that orders a custom planner online and spends a good hour filling it every Sunday. However, I have realized the more complex and time-consuming my planner is, the less I use it. This semester I am sticking with a basic weekly planner from Target. I already went through and penned in all my assignments and exams for the semester. Every Sunday I plan out what I am going to work on each day, so I can avoid thinking about it during the week. So far, this method is working great for keeping me on track!
3. Say “No”
A big reason I get overwhelmed and behind on my work is because I say yes to too many things. This was a difficult thing to realize because I love being involved and busy. If you find yourself saying yes to more than you can handle, take a step back and reevaluate where you place your time. Make sure you are investing your time in activities that interest you and enhance your time at college, rather than those that annoy you and feel like a waste of time. It is amazing how much stress disappears when you say no to just one thing.
4. Find a Way to Relax
It’s so crucial to leave time for yourself to relax and unwind throughout the week. If you don’t de-stress, there’s no way you’ll make it through the whole semester without losing it! Some of my favorite ways to relax include running, reading a book, painting my nails or taking a bath. I try not to spend time on social media or watching TV so my brain can really have a break. Check out this article for more ideas on how to make time for yourself and relax.