I won't lie to you, I have a tendency to be an overachiever and take on way more than any person should be responsible for. As a graduating senior, I wanted to gain as much experience and knowledge as humanly possible before I graduated. Because of who I am, once I set my mind to this, I had to achieve it.
I take 6 classes this semester, which is also my final semester of college, which means that I am enrolled in a capstone course where I am currently in the process of writing a 40+ page assignment and need at least 120 hours outside of the classroom. I am also a sales associate, the EIC, and most recently, the President of Coastal's Odyssey team and a babysitter for a family with 3 children, two of them under the age of 3. In the midst of all of this, I make sure I workout once a day and make time to talk to my family and friends back home and of course make time for my boyfriend as well.
I will admit I took on a lot, but my advice to you if you are nearing the end of college... Challenge yourself and take on a bit more than you think that you can handle because you will surprise yourself by just how much you can accomplish and what you are capable of. One thing that I am grateful for since taking on these responsibilities, is learning how to manage my time.
If you're currently overwhelmed by how much you chose to take on this semester or you're an overachiever as I am, follow these guidelines that helped me, and you'll be on the road to success in no time.
At first, you're going to feel overwhelmed and you're going to want to give up, but I promise you, it will get easier.
Here are some simple ways to be the best overachiever that you can be and not lose your sanity over it...
1. Coffee
Cofee or caffeinated tea will be your best friend. Don't rely on it, but drink as needed. You will have very busy days, so get ready for it and some days your going to need a little extra help and that is okay.
2. Planner
Buy highlighters, gel or colorful pens or whatever else will help your brain refer to your planner and remind you to check in with it every day. This book will be your bible, take it with you everywhere you go. Don't agree to any work, meetings or scheduling until consulting with your planner.
3. Time management
Designate certain days of the weekly as study and homework days. With all of your responsibilities, time will slip away from you and at times you will feel like there are not enough hours in a day for your ambitious self. Learn to prioritize weekly and think ahead rather than cramming everything into one day.
4. Communicate with professors
I always tend to put myself in other's shoes. If I were a professor and a student never reached out to me or checked in to see how there were doing in a course, (especially if it is an online course) I would get the impression that they do not care. Build connections with your professors. They are knowledgeable professionals in your field which means they also can be references for you when you are looking for a job.
If you are struggling, or ever do miss a deadline, they will be more inclined to forgive and help you if you have a favorable track record in the class.
5. Know when to take a break
I know, it is so hard for us to relax because of our nature, but you cannot give one hundred percent of yourself if you are tired and splitting yourself too thin. Don't do it often but, if you feel that you need a mental health day, take the appropriate and professional measures to do so. (Do not abandon your responsibilities altogether and nap for 24 hours as much as it may seem necessary).
