Time Management Tips

Do you ever feel like you don’t have enough time? As college students, the hours just seem to tick away, especially when Netflix is on. Research has shown that with effective time management students are likely to lower their level of anxiety and exhibit greater academic performance (Adams and Blair, 2019). The wing-it motto may be your preferred option but practicing time management can offer you real material benefits.

It may seem daunting to plan and create a perfectly curated schedule; however, there are a few simple steps that can help you get started. Here are a few quick tips to help you along your time management journey:

• Get organized and stay organized
  • Keep a planner. Take time at the start of a semester to write down assignment due dates, test days, and other important class information.
  • Have different folders for all your class work and do your best to keep the folder system going.
  • When in doubt… write it down. Keep a running record of announcements or important information in the same location that you can easily access.
  • Most importantly, if you fall off the organization train, it is never too late to get back on.
• Make a daily list of what you need to get done that day
  • Begin with a list of activities while estimating how long each will take and allow time for contingencies. Checking off a completed item from a list can be a great source of motivation and satisfaction.
  • Within your list make sure you include time for yourself. Consider scheduling in a time to exercise, meditate, grab coffee with a friend, etc. Productivity is important but being kind to yourself is just as important too.
• Routines are your friend
  • Going to bed near the same time and waking up at a consistent time is a great way to maximize your productivity for the day. Your brain likes sleep, and your body loves routine. Sticking to a consistent sleep schedule can help you feel more awake and alert throughout the day.
  • If certain homework is difficult or you don’t like it don’t put it off. Make it a habit to confront those difficult or less than fun assignments early on, rather than procrastinate.

Start small with these tips. Consider implementing one or two of these changes into your life. If you ever need help or want more tips, don’t forget that the Peer Health Educators are here on campus to help you. 

References
Adams, R. V., & Blair, E. (2019). Impact of time management behaviors on undergraduate engineering students’ performance. SAGE Open, 1-11. doi: 10.1177/2158244018824506