So, it's no secret: I am a busy person. With being a full-time student, working twenty hours a week, and being involved in six different organizations, I find myself wishing there were 25 hours in a day. I am always wishing I had a little more time to get one more thing done. But I love being busy. If I sat idly for too long, I think I would drive myself crazy. I have been asked on a multitude of occasions, "how do you remain sane?" or "how do you do it all?" I asked several of my friends different ways they keep themselves together, or, for a lack of better words, get their shit together. Here are some different strategies to make sure you are living your best life!
1. Plan, Plan, Plan.
One of our writers in our community reinforced something that I sometimes falter on: you have to plan. Some people don't and it baffles me. My life lives in my planner. I write down all of my assignments, papers, presentations, and events in there. My work schedule and my different obligations go in there. I know some people who even put in time to sleep or when to eat in there. if you feel as if you're being pulled in every different direction, start with the basics. Get a planner.
2. Take Some Time To Yourself.
Life doesn't revolve around school or work. I know it's really easy to get caught up in it all, but in the end, your sanity is a bit more important. I was watching a YouTube video by a Canadian vlogger named Kalyn Nicholson who dedicates one day a week to a GYST Day. What is GYST? It's simple: Get your shit together. I dedicate my Fridays to this.
Basically, I try to catch up on everything that's fallen through the cracks throughout the week. I go grocery shopping, prep some simple meals. I do my laundry, clean my room, my kitchen, and bathroom. I put a hair and face mask on. I play some good tunes and try to crank out some homework. I make a list and do what my heart desires.
Many people opt to do this on Sundays, but sometimes I work. I adjust it to my schedule. Friday is a day where I am capable to do absolutely whatever I want. Taking care of yourself doesn't have to include a $75 massage (kudos to you if you do that, though). Treat yourself.
3. Write Out Your Goals.
Some people make a dream board. Others go into a journal and write down their short-term and long-term goals. I write an inspirational quote on my whiteboard. It's cheesy and it's basic, but it's the first thing that I see when I wake up in the morning. I also write out my long-term goals but then break them into smaller chunks. It seems that our goals are monumental, but if your goals appear smaller, then it seems more achievable.
Hopefully these tips help you get your stuff together this semester!