You are fierce. You are intelligent. You say “yes” more than the average person would, or should.
You are overcommitted, and that is okay.
In my own experiences, I found that there are four major factors that work together in order for this lifestyle to function.
First, you need to check yourself regularly to make sure that whatever things you are busy with are things that you genuinely enjoy doing. Too often a “can-do” attitude can push people to put things that are of little personal value into the way of activities or classes that they are actually interested in. My quasi-goldilocks measuring tool is to ask, “Am I doing this because I feel as though it is required?”
If you genuinely look forward to participating in the things that fill up your schedule, then your busy lifestyle will feel more like a joyful whirlwind. Such a chocked-full schedule lends itself to the fact that time is everything.
How you choose to spend your time is a blatant display of what is important to you. Choose wisely.
Time is also etiquette. Learn the ins, outs, and commute times throughout your schedule to ensure that you are presenting yourself the best way possible in lieu of your many commitments. As a measure of caution, and a means of survival, I have learned to hyper-organize.
Having a lot of commitments means that there are a lot of things you could potentially forget. In my case, I need to write information down in various places to keep track of where I’m supposed to be. Keeping a planner is essential in this regard. Beyond a well-updated planner, I am a huge advocate for To-Do lists. Not only does it feel great to cross off each plan as you get it done, but your list can also function as a map for your day. My To-Do list from Wednesday had “eat” on it three times— it is okay to be realistic with yourself in planning your day. If color-coding is your style, then by all means, choose different colors for classes, clubs, meetings, and anything else that’s important to you.
The over-committed and hyper-organized know the value of time, and tiny tricks that save it. Laying out clothes the night before as well as pre-packing my backpack saves an average of 20 minutes each morning. In dining halls, I avoid getting food that requires waiting in long lines. By adapting one’s own set of rules while in a rush, you can discipline yourself into getting things done well, and fast.
Most important however, prioritize your support system.
Take care of the people who love you, including yourself. Too often, we over commit and become trapped in cyclical thought regarding whatever it is that we need to get done, instead of thinking outwardly towards the people around us. The positivity that one’s support system provides is absolutely essential to happiness and personal well-being. If you find yourself busy to the point where you cannot give your support system some quality time, then a red flag is being raised.
This also means finding quiet time for you. If you enjoy working out as a stress reliever or practice yoga for mediation, then work it into your schedule. Taking the time to care for yourself will ultimately make you better for everything else that you do. Eat well, sleep enough, and find a peaceful place to seclude yourself when it is time for you. Love yourself, and regularly express gratitude for the wonderful things that you are able to accomplish. If you are busy with things that you love, then you will be able to produce meaningful work amongst meaningful relationships.
With this in mind, let’s get going.
We have stuff to do.
