If there is anything that separates a successful college student from the rest of the pack, it’s all in how they manage their time. Students who know how to strike the right amount of balance between school and other activities often find their college years easier to navigate. Unfortunately, not every student has the right tools and habits necessary to help them manage their time effectively.
Here’s the good news: It’s never too late to develop new habits! With a little bit of dedication and persistence, you can turn things around and get your priorities back in gear. Of course, you have to want to make it happen in order for it to work. Are you finally ready to get your college life back in order? If so, take a look at the 5 time management tips that all students need to know about below. Adopt them slow and steady. Before you know it, you’ll find your groove and will be on track to making college the best it can be!
Tip #1 – Learn How-to Prioritize
If you’re going to be successful in anything, learning how to prioritize is an absolute must. Without knowing how-to determine a sense of urgency for the things you need to complete, everything can easily get jumbled together. Eventually, deadlines are missed and coursework starts to fall by the wayside. Prioritizing is easy to do and doesn’t take much effort. Put your coursework first and your activities outside of school second. Get the tough stuff out of the way so you can reap the rewards after. It really is that easy to do!
Tip #2 – Track and Plan Everything
It’s no big secret that deadlines in college are no laughing matter. It’s incredibly rare that professors will make exceptions for work that isn’t turned in when it’s due. Get into the habit of missing deadlines and you’ll find your college career will be quickly cut short. Don’t make a silly mistake that can be easily controlled with just a few minutes of planning per day. Make sure you write down all deadlines and plan ahead so that you’re able to hit your due dates on time. Better yet, aim to complete your work a few days before it’s actually due. By following that practice, you’ll have time to make any adjustments without sacrificing any extra time.
Tip #3 – Create a Study Schedule
Studying is practically what college students live and breathe. The recommended rule of thumb for study time is 2 to 3 hours per credit hour you’re enrolled in. For full-time students, the time dedication necessary is nearly equivalent to a full-time job. If you’re not studying as much as you should be, it might be time to make some improvements. Make sure you follow and maintain a consistent study schedule. If you plan out your day accordingly, you should be able to create a study routine that you can follow each day. According to a tampa rehab, doing so will reduce your overall stress and better prepare you for major exams and projects. No more last-minute cramming or pounding down pots of coffee are necessary!
Tip #4 – Plan Tougher Tasks During Your Peak Energy Time
While we all run to the beat of a different drum, everyone has a time of day where their energy and focus is at its highest. For some, this could be shortly after waking u p. For others, it may be in the evening or late-night hours. Regardless of when your “in the zone” time is, this peak in energy levels should be taken advantage of to get the most out of it. Here’s what to do: Plan study sessions during this time or tackle your most difficult and intense tasks when your peak energy levels are at their highest. By doing so, you will be able to get more done in less time, as your focus will be at a higher level. You will be shocked at how much you can accomplish when you’re able to zero in and concentrate in a much deeper way.
Tip #5 – Make Time to Relax and Have Fun
While college can be serious work, it doesn’t mean you have to be stuck with your face in your books 24/7. The only way to keep your mental health strong and your focus steady is to plan for downtime. Without it, you’ll only grow weary, tired, and unmotivated. Remember, it’s all about striking the perfect balance between work and play. Relaxing and taking time out for yourself is healthy and highly encouraged. If you follow all of the time management techniques listed above, planning some downtime can be done without feeling guilty about it. It’s good for your mind, body, and soul. Take care of yourself first, and everything else will follow!
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