As college students our lives can be a little hectic, to say the least. In order to balance demanding course work, an internship, a job, and a social life it is critical to stay organized. Below are 15 tips to take control of your busy life.
1. Get in habit of setting alarms before you get into bed.
Otherwise, you will most likely forget and fall asleep without a way to wake up on time. Setting a daily alarm is the best idea because you don't need to worry about setting one every night. Additionally, it's best for your body to wake up at the same time everyday.
2. Create a list of short term and long term goals.
Everyone dreams about the life they want to live someday but those ideas will most likely stay dreams until you make a clear action plan. In addition, make sure to set deadlines on your short term goals so you can stay on track.
3. Put your wallet/keys in the same exact spot every time you enter your room.
This way you won't have to tear your room apart in a quest to find them every time you are rushing out the door.
4. Leave a pack of makeup wipes next to your bed.
Sleeping with your makeup on is a major skin faux-pas. Makeup sinks into your pores and leaves your face clogged which results in waking up with blemishes. Leaving some makeup wipes on your bed stand is great for when you don't have the energy to wash your face after a long night out.
5. Be active everyday.
Working out everyday (low or high intensity) is a great stress reliever and energy booster. As college students we need as much of both we can get! So hit the gym or the park and stretch it out.
6. Write lists.
Keeping to-do lists is the most efficient way to make sure you are staying on track with your busy schedule. Also, it feels great to cross off a completed task.
7. Open a bank account if you haven't already.
Seriously. This one blows my mind but if for some reason you don't already have a bank account now is the time to open one. It is super important to have a safe place for your money and start saving every month. Remember, any amount no matter how small will eventually add up in a savings account.
8. Switch to direct deposit.
Simplify your life just a little bit by choosing direct despot over old fashioned checks. Not only is it way more convenient but it's also an easy way to go green!
9. Make your bed.
Every morning. No excuses. Interesting enough, when the bed is made the entire rooms appears more organized. Also, you'll feel more organized by doing it.
10. Grocery shop.
While it may seem easy to just grab a slice of pizza after class, your body is going to hate you for those greasy carbs. Grocery shopping is a great way to save money and prepare fresh meals at home. Also, many grocery stores offer pre-made salads and wraps that are both healthy and cheap.
11. Stop procrastinating.
The best way to avoid procrastination is to break a task into smaller more manageable chunks. Take a look at your weekly schedule and pencil in specific times to do smaller parts of a big assignment.
12. Set a limit before you go out.
If you end up blowing your paycheck at the bar every Friday night than try going out with cash only. This way you can't spend more than you have. (Just make sure your uber account is working so you don't get stuck without a ride home!)
13. Make time for yourself.
It is far too easy to get caught up in drama and crappy boyfriends but trust me life is way better once you leave that behind. Free yourself from any negativity in your life and you'll feel so much happier.
14. Make time for friends.
If it's Saturday night and you're sitting in your pajamas with a pint of Ben and Jerry's, it's time to pick up the phone and go out. You're only young once so make sure you go out and live your life. Make plans ahead of time with friends to try new restaurants and go to concerts. Staying active in your social life will help you feel connected and supported when life gets overwhelmingly stressful.
15. Shop online.
Save hours of stressful searching and just order what you want online. Online shopping usually offers way better deals than in stores and you'll be less likely to buy things you don't really need.
