Time management is a skill that everyone needs to build throughout their lives. It is possible to learn how to manage your time effectively and efficiently based on your schedule and habits. Additionally, it is important to schedule time for yourself, to support healthy habits and maintain energy so that you can complete your daily tasks. Here are some useful tips to help you manage your academic and personal time this new semester.
Time management tips:
-
Create a schedule for your day and stick to it
-
Make sure you get plenty of sleep each night - young adults need an average of eight hours of sleep each night. It is easy to get caught up in the idea that sleep takes away from your ability to complete homework, but your brain actually processes the information from your day while you sleep and is able to better retain information when you get a good night of sleep
-
Don’t hit snooze! Get up and get going right away
-
Stay hydrated. Try to increase how much water you drink each day until you are consistently drinking eight cups of water each day.
-
Eat three meals each day. Breakfast is important to start your day with energy and to keep energy throughout the day
-
Schedule “me-time” each day and do something you love. Whether that be going for a run, making a new recipe, reading a book, or watching netflix, make sure that you are doing something fun to maintain your emotional energy
-
Do things at the same time everyday to maintain a consistent schedule. Wake up at the same time, go to bed at the same time, study at the same time, and eat meals at the same time.
-
Set a timer for each activity you have to complete. Study for an hour and then take a 20 minute break!
-
Learn how to say “no” to things that are in the way of your goals. It is easy to say “yes” to going out every weekend or hanging out with your friends each night, but always saying “yes” can lead to stress and burnout. Prioritize yourself and know that it is okay to say “no” every once in a while to activities that are harmful to your health and academics.
Study Tips:
-
Study during the daytime. Make sure that you have access to sunlight while you are studying. Alternatively, when you take a break, try to get outside for some fresh air and sunlight.
-
Plan out time every day that you dedicate to studying
-
Study at the same time everyday
-
Take breaks during study periods
-
Organize your homework based on which activities need to be done first. Complete the activities based on your priorities
-
Color code your notes
-
Take notes during class
-
Reach out to your professor if you are struggling with the material. Go to their office hours and ask lots of questions!